Paul Vernon Chester -
Guitarist and Composer

One of the UK’s and the world’s finest Gypsy Jazz guitarists, Paul’s playing and compositions are rapidly bringing him to the forefront of the jazz guitar scene. His playing, in the Django tradition, is warm open hearted and high octane!  Regularly appearing on the same stage as many of the big names of the genre, Paul’s work has been broadcasted both in the UK and abroad.  His compositions once heard are rarely forgotten. ‘Hauntingly beautiful’ and ‘infectious’ are both accurate descriptions that have been applied to Paul’s music, as proven in many performances that have earned him huge respect from audiences and artists alike. He is internationally respected and has shared stages with some of the world's finest Gypsy Jazz musicians. Described by one hardened Gypsy Jazz fan as "scarily good" he not only plays with great technical finesse but, most importantly, with enormous charm and soul. He is supported by his cousin and long time accompanist, the superb rhythm guitarist, Nick Mellor.  Paul endorses JWC Guitars

Paul Vernon Chester Video

Recordings

'SUITE DJANGO’ – PAUL VERNON CHESTER One of the finest Django stylists in the world, and a wonderful composer, Paul has come up with a truly beautiful album of his own exciting tunes to depict key events and people in Django’s life. A real gem of a CD!
With Ian Cruickshank, Rhythm.gtr. and Andy Crowdy, bass. His playing is warm, open-hearted and high octane.

Musical Impressions of the life of Django reinhardt.

All Compositions by Paul Vernon Chester
Naissence, Valse Des Enfants, Flame of Destiny, Redemption, Nin-Nin, Broad Brimmed Hat,
Baro & Matelo, Hotel Claridge, Selmer Swing, American Dream, Naguines Tears
 

'Duets for Django' recorded at Live @ Concert Jazz In Thame on 14/03/07 (Paul's Birthday). This celebration may account for the Manouche Magic captured by Jake Kirkpatrick at this high Quality Jazz Venue in Oxfordshire.  This High Quality Production gives great insight to Paul's compositions, faultless technique and ability to improvise inventively on a chord structure and his tender treatment of .slow tempo compositions.  The attentive listening audience were so enraptured that their presence is only apparent in the enthusiastic applause at the end of each number.  A must for Manoucheries - This is professional stuff - no Bootleg productions - all worthy of our Highest Standards.
Paul and his cousin, rhythm guitarist NICK MELLOR have been playing together since they were kids-and their rapport is clearly apparent in their performances.

Video of Paul in Action @ Concert Jazz Thame 14/03/07

Video of Nick in Action @ Concert Jazz in Thame 14/03/07

New Duo Recording Release

'DAY OF THE MANOUCHE'.
 
This is a joint venture organised by Guitar Maker's and  Sponsor - JWC Guitars. 
There are 20 tracks including 10 original compositions by Paul Vernon Chester. 
Tribute compositions by Paul include the following:
Jeongwoo's Waltz -    dedicated to the Manouche Guitar's Master Luthier - Jeongwoo Cho
Toogood to be True - in praise of the UK Pioneer Jazz Guitarist Jack Toogood
Maccaferri Waltz -      tribute to legendary Selmer collaborator Luthier and Guitarist - Mario Maccaferri
Karen's Theme -         dedicated to Paul's Wife.
Tune for Chet -           dedicated to the late Country Picker 'Chet Atkins'

Sleeve Notes:
The Manouche musical legacy, the gift of a Gypsy Prince continues to cast its spell and enchant us still.  This album is a celebration of our adopted music.

It combines material familiar from the canon of Django's Art together with new material and melodies, less familiar.  Nick and I recorded it on a day in April 2009 on a range of Manouche Guitars including a nylon strung 14 fret Classic.

These Guitars, made by Jeongwoo Cho, for JWC Guitars of Cheltenham, inspire and invoke the Gypsy Spirit.  Track 2 is our tribute to him.
In addition, our friend the veteran Jazz Guitarist Jack Toogood inspired Track 5 

The variety of instruments allowed us to explore contrasts, colours, tones, textures and most importantly, mood and atmosphere.  Playing essentially Manouche Music on Manouche Guitars with a rhythm guitarist who is not only your cousin but your lifelong accompanist, is always a joy, indeed the whole day was a joy.  It was - The Day of the Manouche!
Paul Vernon Chester

Day of the Manouche -  Purchase Enquiry  CD DEALERS: PLEASE ENQUIRE FOR TRADE PRICES

Paul's Master Classes - Gypsy Jazz Guitar Workshop

Paul holds regular Tuition schools in Walsall in the West Midlands and it is a great opportunity to receive first class instruction from this world respected guitarist and and opportunity download from him a deal of his personal recollections and anecdotes regarding the music he loves and promotes.  His dexterity, musicianship, intricate skills, historical interest and enthusiasm are a joy to absorb.  If you are a serious student you could have no finer teacher than Maestro Paul Vernon Chester in the demanding and delicate delights of Manouche Swing Jazz. Workshop Details