About Wawau

Wawau Adler – Virtuoso of Gypsy Jazz

Wawau Adler, born in Karlsruhe in 1967, is an internationally acclaimed jazz guitarist and one of the most important representatives of Gypsy Jazz. As a member of a long-established Sinti family, his love of music was instilled in him from a young age. He discovered the guitar at an early age and developed into one of the most versatile and technically brilliant musicians of his generation.

Inspired by the music of the legendary Django Reinhardt, Wawau Adler blends the tradition of Manouche jazz with modern jazz influences. His playing is characterized by exceptional virtuosity, rhythmic precision, and emotional depth. He preserves the characteristic elements of Gypsy Swing while simultaneously introducing new impulses and further developing the style.

With numerous released albums, Wawau Adler has secured a firm place in the international jazz scene. Whether at renowned jazz festivals, in intimate clubs, or at exclusive workshops, his captivating guitar playing enthralls audiences and critics alike. In addition to his solo projects and his own ensembles, he regularly collaborates with well-known musicians, including luminaries of the Gypsy jazz scene such as Biréli Lagrène.

Beyond the stage, Wawau Adler is a passionate ambassador of Gypsy Jazz. In workshops and masterclasses, he shares his knowledge with young musicians, inspires the next generation, and helps keep the tradition of this unique music alive.

With his impressive technique, his unmistakable style and his deep musical passion, Wawau Adler is one of the most influential personalities of contemporary Gypsy Jazz and sets new standards worldwide in this genre.

Collaborations – Wawau Adler & his musical companions

Throughout his career, Wawau Adler has collaborated with numerous outstanding musicians from the international jazz scene. His virtuoso playing and unique style make him a sought-after partner for joint projects, studio recordings, and live performances.

Among the renowned artists with whom Wawau Adler has shared the stage and the studio are:

  • Pee Wee Ellis
  • Didier Lockwood
  • Biréli Lagrène
  • Jermaine Landsberger
  • Marian Petrescu
  • Eva Slongo
  • Joel Locher
  • Thorsten Goods
  • Noé Reinhardt

…and many other greats of the jazz and gypsy jazz scene.

These collaborations underline the musical versatility of Wawau Adler and his reputation as one of the leading Gypsy Jazz guitarists of our time.

Discography – The Music of Wawau Adler

Since 1991, Wawau Adler has regularly released new albums – both with his own projects and as a sought-after sideman in collaboration with other artists. His discography reflects his musical versatility and his exceptional virtuosity in Gypsy Jazz.

Here you will find an overview of his publications:

I Play With You
GLM Music, 2022

Happy Birthday Django 110
GLM Music, 2020

Expressions
Chaos Records, 2013

Here’s To Django
Minor Music Records, 2010

Songs For Guitar And Bass | mit Joel Locher
Minor Music Records, 2010

Back To The Roots Vol. 2
Satin Doll Records, 2007

Back To The Roots
Satin Doll Records, 2006

With Body And Soul
Bella Musica, 1991

Als Sideman

Intensity Of Bass | Joel Locher
GLM Music, 2018

My Django Family | Damir Kukuruzović
Menart, 2014

Django Festival 4 | Sampler
Hot Club Records, 2006

Listen to Wawaus music

Listen to Wawaus' music. Discover Wawaus' music on CD, as a download or as a music stream.

Press reviews

“…truly, four musicians have found each other who are on the same wavelength, harmonizing perfectly throughout the entire concert and, moreover, sharing the same passion for this genre-crossing music between the niche jazz of Gypsy Swing and the broader field of mainstream jazz. There are moments when different individuals become one, when everything fits together perfectly. This concert at Birdland was one of those moments.”

Donaukurier – zum vollständigen Artikel

“…Unconventional introductions lead to gems from jazz history. Familiar themes are further developed and enriched with original improvisations that extend far beyond the realm of swing. Wawau Adler’s electric guitar often evokes Wes Montgomery or Joe Pass, elements of hard bop and funk are incorporated, and percussive playing styles are also integrated…”

onetz – zum vollständigen Artikel

“…The elegance, dignity, and vitality emanating from this group during the concert are captivating, and the audience response is correspondingly enthusiastic. For two hours, the Wawau Adler Gypsy Quartet provided this year’s SHMF with a highlight. When jazz works, it is the best music in the world. And on this evening, every note was perfectly placed.”

Kieler Nachrichten – zum vollständigen Artikel

Equipment

Wawau Adler plays exclusively with guitar strings from GALLISTRINGS and a guitar stand from BULLDOG GEAR

 

 

Logo Gallistrings - Wawau Adler Logo Bulldog Musicgear - Wawau Adler

 

 

contact & booking

bella concerts
ottakringer str. 129/3.2
1160 vienna, austria

+43 660 114 1069
booking@bellaconcerts.com
bellaconcerts.com