All about Paul "Tchan-Tchou" Vidal

La Gitane Paul "Tchan-Tchou" Vidal
Paul "Tchan-Tchou" Vidal (g solo); (g,b,d) unknown
Paris 1960
The Cheik Of Araby Paul "Tchan-Tchou" Vidal
Paul "Tchan-Tchou" Vidal (g solo); (g,b,d) unknown
Paris 1960
Les Deux Guitares (Two Guitars) Paul "Tchan-Tchou" Vidal
Paul "Tchan-Tchou" Vidal (g solo); (g,b,d) unknown
Paris 1953
Les Yeux Noirs (Dark Eyes) Paul "Tchan-Tchou" Vidal
Paul "Tchan-Tchou" Vidal (g solo); (g,b,d) unknown
Paris 1953

Paul "Tchan Tchou" Vidal is the most respected musician of the "Southern" school of Gypsy guitar playing. Unlike Django who was a Manouche or Sinti Gypsy, Tchan Tchou was from the Gitane tribe which has roots in Spain. Hence, his music had a strong flamenco influence. He also absorbed other Mediterranean influences, most notably Corsican folk music.

 

Tchan Tchou's jazz playing tended to be much simpler then the Parisian based Manocuhe and Gitane Gypsies. His strong point was boleros, waltzes and folk tunes such as Two Guitars and Dark Eyes. Tchan Tchou's most famous composition is the waltz La Gitane. It is a stunning display of virtuosity that has become a "test" piece for all aspiring Gypsy guitarists. This live version was recorded in 1989. It has some interesting variations not found in the more commonly heard 1960 version (see the CD: Gipsy Jazz School).
Django Books

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