Svend Asmussen

Svend Asmussen (1916-2017) was a Danish jazz violinist who was born on February 28, 1916, in Copenhagen, Denmark. He was known for his virtuosic playing and his unique style that blended swing, bebop, and traditional Danish music. Asmussen was one of the most important figures in the development of jazz in Scandinavia and was a key player in the international jazz scene for more than seven decades.

Asmussen began his professional career at the age of 17, playing with some of the top Danish jazz bands of the time. In the early 1930s, he formed his own band, the Hot Club de Danemark, which became one of the most popular jazz groups in Denmark. Asmussen also played with the Benny Goodman Orchestra in 1946 and later with the Oscar Peterson Trio.

Asmussen made numerous recordings throughout his career, beginning with his first recording in 1935. He recorded with many of the top jazz musicians of the time, including Django Reinhardt, Stéphane Grappelli, and Duke Ellington. Asmussen also recorded a number of solo albums, showcasing his unique style and virtuosity on the violin.

Asmussen’s style was characterized by his fast, fluid, and virtuosic playing. He had a unique ability to blend swing, bebop, and traditional Danish music, creating a sound that was both sophisticated and accessible. Asmussen was also known for his use of the “slap” technique, in which he slapped the strings of the violin to create a percussive sound.

Asmussen toured extensively throughout his career, playing in Europe, North America, and Asia. He played at many of the top jazz festivals, including the Montreux Jazz Festival, the Newport Jazz Festival, and the North Sea Jazz Festival. Asmussen was also a frequent guest on television shows, including The Ed Sullivan Show and The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson.

Discography:

Asmussen’s discography includes more than 300 recordings, including solo albums, collaborations with other musicians, and recordings with his various bands. Some of his most notable recordings include “June Night,” “Scandinavian Shuffle,” and “Svend Asmussen Plays Gershwin.” Asmussen was also the recipient of many awards throughout his career, including the Danish Music Award and the Django d’Or.

In conclusion, Svend Asmussen was a jazz violinist who made a significant contribution to the development of jazz in Scandinavia and the international jazz scene. His unique style, virtuosity, and ability to blend different genres of music made him a highly influential figure in the world of jazz. Asmussen’s extensive discography and numerous awards are a testament to his talent and his lasting impact on the world of music.

Discography As leader

Plays Hot Fiddle (Parlophone, 1953)

Danish Imports with Ulrik Neumann (Warner Bros., 1961)

European Encounter with John Lewis (Atlantic, 1962)

Scandinavian Folk Songs Sung and Swung! with Alice Babs (Philips, 1964)

Evergreens (Odeon, 1965)

Violin Summit with Stephane Grappelli, Stuff Smith, Jean-Luc Ponty (Prestige, 1968)

Just Fiddlin’ Around with Deiter Reith (Murbo, 1967)

Two of a Kind with Stephane Grappelli (Polydor, 1968)

Yesterday and Today with Toots Thielemans (A&M, 1973)

Toots and Svend with Toots Thielemans (Sonet, 1973)