Stéphane Wrembel Performs at Beaver Creek's Vilar Center

The snow-capped peaks of Beaver Creek glisten in the fading light of day as the sound of guitars and drums drifts from the Vilar Center, enticing passersby to come and experience the unique sound of Stéphane Wrembel. Inside, the French-born guitarist is setting up for his March 31 performance, his fingers moving deftly over the strings as he tunes his instrument. The air is alive with anticipation, the crowd buzzing with excitement.

Stéphane Wrembel's music is a blend of his diverse influences, from the classical piano he studied as a child in Fontainebleau, France, to the rock music of Pink Floyd and the impressionistic feel of Django Reinhardt's compositions. Reinhardt, a Sinti, or Roma group from Western Europe, is regarded as one of the most influential musicians and composers throughout history, and Wrembel has immersed himself in Sinti culture for several years to master the Sinti-style guitar. As he takes the stage, he's joined by longtime drummer Nick Anderson, Quico from Spain on second guitar, and bassist Erik Alvar, who has played with Billy Strings. The lineup may have changed due to health issues, but Wrembel assures the audience that the quality of the performance remains the same.

"On stage is more than a collection of instruments; everyone has their own personality, and you need people who have similar chemistry," Wrembel says, his French accent infusing his words with a musical quality. "But because we're all unique human beings, the chemistry is always different, and you get a new result every time." This chemistry is evident as the quartet launches into their set, the music swirling and blending in a way that's both familiar and innovative. Wrembel's guitar work is a precise and passionate expression of his dedication to his craft, his fingers dancing across the strings with a precision and passion that's mesmerizing to watch.

As the night wears on, the crowd is transported to the jazz clubs of New Orleans, the streets of Paris, and the countryside of Spain, all through the power of Wrembel's music. His last two album releases, "Django New Orleans" and "Django New Orleans II: Hors-Série," have been inspired by the jazz of New Orleans and the works of Django Reinhardt, and it's clear that these influences have had a profound impact on his sound. "You have brass sections and percussions, that's the foundation of it," Wrembel explains, "and what Django Reinhardt showed us is how to swing, but on the guitar." This blending of styles and influences is what sets Wrembel's music apart, making it a truly unique and captivating experience.

As the performance comes to a close, the crowd erupts into applause, cheering and whistling for more. Wrembel and his quartet take their final bows, beaming with pride and gratitude. It's clear that this music is more than just a collection of notes and chords - it's a reflection of Wrembel's soul, his experiences, and his passions. "Once you've heard something, once you have experienced something, it's also a part of you," he says, "big or small, it doesn't matter. It will spice your soul and your whole being." As the audience files out of the Vilar Center, they carry with them the memory of a truly unforgettable night, one that will stay with them long after the music fades away.

The snow-capped peaks of Beaver Creek still glisten in the night air, but now they're accompanied by the sound of laughter and conversation, the crowd reliving the highlights of the performance as they make their way back to their cars. The Vilar Center may be empty, but the music of Stéphane Wrembel will linger on, a reminder of the power of art to transport and transform us.