Django Reinhardt Birthday Celebration Feat. Olli Siokkel

A Tribute to Django Reinhardt ~ Hot Club of Saratoga and The Van Dyck Music Club  present The 3rd Annual  Django’s Birthday Celebration Featuring Olli Soikkeli Trio

[Saratoga Springs, NY – December 15. 2025] – The Hot Club of Saratoga and The Van Dyck Music Club proudly announce The 3rd Annual Django Birthday Celebration taking place on Friday, January 23, 2026. This event, commemorating the 115^th anniversary of Reinhardt’s birth, promises another extraordinary evening with a concert, workshops, an open jam session, featuring the sensational performances by Hot Club of Saratoga and headlining this year, top Gypsy Jazz guitarist, Olli Soikkeli with his trio.

Django Reinhardt, arguably the Father of Gypsy Jazz, continues to inspire generations with his revolutionary contributions to jazz and guitar. In honor of his enduring legacy, Hot Club of Saratoga is producing the third annual celebration designed to captivate audiences and pay homage to the unparalleled artistry of Reinhardt.

The highlight of the evening will be a concert featuring Hot Club of Saratoga opening for the remarkable Olli Soikkeli Trio. Olli, originally from Finland, spends much of his time when not touring worldwide, in NYC. With a unique technique he captures the fire and soulfulness renowned in Gypsy Jazz. The trio will be filled out by Brad Brose on guitar and Wallace Stelzer, both in high demand from top players everywhere.

Complementing the concert, will be workshops led by these accomplished musicians, providing attendees with an opportunity to explore Gypsy Jazz techniques and delve into the essence of this groundbreaking style on guitar, violin and string bass. These workshops aim to inspire and educate, fostering a deeper appreciation for Reinhardt’s enduring musical legacy and help build a thriving Gypsy Jazz community in upstate NY.

The celebration will close with an open jam session, inviting musicians of all levels to join in and pay tribute to Reinhardt’s innovation through collaborative improvisation and musical camaraderie. Food and drink will be available throughout the evening from Stella Pasta Bar (and club menu) and Seven Points Brewery.

Event Details:

• Date: Friday, January 23, 2026
• Time: Workshops 4:45-6:15, Doors 6:30, Concert 7:00, Jam 9:00-10:00
• Location: The Van Dyck Music Club, 237 Union St, Schenectady, NY 12305
• Information: https://www.hotclubofsaratoga.com/djangos-birthday-celebration.html
• Direct Ticket Link: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/hotclubofsaratoga/1981744
• Hot Club of Saratoga: https://www.hotclubofsaratoga.com/
• Olli Soikkeli: https://www.youtube.com/@ollisoikkeli3587
• Contact: Chuck Kish, hotclubofsaratoga@gmail.com, 518-928-9414

This event is produced by Hot Club of Saratoga, The Van Dyck Music Club, and Collar City Guitars

About the Hot Club of Saratoga

Hot Club of Saratoga is an ensemble committed to preserving and celebrating the rich heritage of Gypsy Jazz and to building a vibrant upstate Gypsy Jazz Community.

Press and Media Contact: Chuck Kish, hotclubofsaratoga@gmail.com, 518-928-9414

Note to Editors: High-resolution images and promotional material are available upon request.

Please ensure that specific event details, such as time, location, and ticketing information, are accurately provided based on the particulars of the celebration.