Samy Daussat

Samy Daussat, born on February 3, 1972, is a Parisian guitarist and a renowned educator. He offers private lessons via webcam and organizes workshops and masterclasses.

With a professional career spanning over three decades, Samy has performed with some of the biggest names in gypsy jazz around the world. Born in Brittany in 1972, he began learning classical guitar at the age of 7. Growing up in a jazz-loving family, he gravitated towards this music as a teenager and in 1989, he enrolled in Pierre Cullaz’s guitar classes in Paris. It was during this time that he frequented the Chope des Puces, immersing himself in the vibrant music scene.

In 1996, Samy joined the trio of gypsy guitarist Moreno, and later became a member of Alma Sinti led by Patrick Saussois. He spent six years accompanying Raphaël Fays in France and abroad. In 1999, at the Django Festival in Samois-sur-Seine, he had a pivotal encounter with Babik Reinhardt. This meeting led to his inclusion in Babik’s final formation, alongside Christian Escoudé and Florin Niculescu.

In turn, Samy shared his knowledge and love for the guitar with David Reinhardt. Together, they formed the David Reinhardt Trio with Noé Reinhardt, releasing their album in 2004 under Cristal Records. Since 2007, Samy has been accompanying Tchavolo Schmitt, touring extensively across Europe and Japan.

In 2008, fueled by the support of his mentors, Samy formed his own ensemble, which he first showcased at the Jazz in Marciac festival. The audience embraced him with great promise, and in 2009, he released his debut solo album, “La Petite Famille.” Samy Daussat was featured in the commemoration of Django Reinhardt’s 100th birthday at the Django Reinhardt Festival in Samois-sur-Seine in June 2010. In 2011, he released his second album as a leader, titled “In Time,” under the Ouest label. He also published “Les Secrets du Jazz Manouche” in Guitarist Acoustic magazine. In 2012, he appeared in the feature film “Les Fils du vent,” formed a group paying tribute to Django and Grappelli with Costel Nitescu and David Reinhardt, and toured in Latvia in August. His third album as a leader, “Nouvelle Vague,” was released on August 26, 2013, by Label Ouest – l’autre distribution. This was followed by another 15-day tour in Latvia.

In 2014, Samy performed with his band at the TSF’s “You and the Night and the Music” at Olympia, and participated in the Django-themed creation with the Air Force Big Band at Jazz sous les pommiers[2]. He composed and arranged music for Tchavolo Schmitt’s CD (Académie du jazz award), performed in Marciac and Samois-sur-Seine, appeared at the rendez-vous de l’Erdre, the Sunset, and various Parisian clubs. He made appearances on FIP and France Musique and played at the Chope des Puces with flamenco guitarist JB Marino.

In 2015, alongside Noé Reinhardt, he represented France at the Django Festival in Oslo and worked on the reissue of the remastered complete recordings of the Django Reinhardt and Stéphane Grappelli string quintet. During the summer, he toured at jazz festivals and in Latvia. In 2016, he performed in New York with a program dedicated to Serge Gainsbourg. He toured in Romania with the Emy Dragoi family, entertained at the salons of Stade de France during the Euro football tournament, and gave lessons and concerts at Django In June USA. In 2017, he organized the first Paris Django Camp and was invited to the Django Fest in Los Angeles. He collaborated with the musicians of the Paris Orchestra at the Philharmonie and performed at the opening of the Django Reinhardt Festival on the village square of Samois-sur-Seine with the Alma Sinti trio. In 2018, he made an appearance in the TV series “Joséphine, ange gardien,” taught at the Minieraacustica workshop in Italy, and performed in a concert with his son Sahel. He was also engaged in the play “Silence on tourne” at the Théâtre Fontaine for six months. In 2019, he toured in Italy with his Italian project.

In addition to his career as a musician, Samy is also a dedicated educator, offering lessons and masterclasses in the USA, France, Belgium, Germany, and Italy. He has authored numerous methods for practicing gypsy guitar with Angelo Debarre and David Reinhardt, as well as a tablet application.

In 2023, Samy Daussat continues to captivate audiences throughout Europe, the USA, and especially in France, where he collaborates with an exceptional lineup of musicians. Alongside the talents of Sébastien Giniaux, Charles Fréchette, David Gastine, Laurent Le Gall, Francesco Socal, Luca Pisani, Vincent Simonelli, Fred Gomes, Raoul, and other esteemed French artists, Samy embarks on an exhilarating musical journey.

Their performances showcase the dynamic synergy and virtuosity of these musicians, enchanting audiences with their innovative interpretations of gypsy jazz. Whether they are performing beloved classics or original compositions, their collective artistry creates an atmosphere of unparalleled joy and camaraderie.

Throughout their extensive tour, they grace prestigious stages and festivals, weaving their musical tapestry across various cities and venues. From intimate jazz clubs to grand concert halls, their captivating performances transport audiences into the enchanting world of gypsy jazz.

With Samy Daussat’s masterful guitar playing and the collective brilliance of his fellow musicians, each performance is a testament to their passion, skill, and dedication to the rich traditions of gypsy jazz. Audiences are treated to an unforgettable experience, as they witness the magic that unfolds when these exceptional talents unite on stage.

In this exciting chapter of Samy’s career, he continues to push the boundaries of gypsy jazz, mesmerizing audiences with his artistry and leaving an indelible mark on the world of music. With each concert, they forge connections and create lasting memories, spreading the joy of gypsy jazz far and wide.