Alix Combelle: The Swing Maestro
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Alix Combelle, born on June 15, 1912, in Paris, France, was a French swing saxophonist, clarinetist, and bandleader. His musical journey began under the guidance of his father, François Combelle, who played classical saxophone with the Band of the Republican Guard. Combelle started his career as a musician in the late 1920s, playing drums, and in the early 1930s, he played clarinet and saxophone in theater pit orchestras in Paris.
Career and Musical Innovations
In the 1930s, Combelle became a member of several bands led by Gregor (Krikor Kelekian), Arthur Briggs, Michel Warlop, Guy Paquinet, and Ray Ventura. He worked with visiting American musicians such as Benny Carter, Adelaide Hall, Coleman Hawkins, Freddy Johnson, and Danny Polo. He was a member of Bill Coleman’s band when it included Argentinian swing guitarist Oscar Aleman. He performed with French singers such as Charles Trenet and Jean Sablon and recorded with Philippe Brun.
Recordings and Performances
Over the years, Combelle recorded several albums that showcased his unique musical style. Some of his notable albums include “Alix Combelle 1935-1940”, “Alix Combelle 1940-1941”, “Alix Combelle 1942-1943”, and “The Swinging Mister Alix: 1937–1942”. In the 1940s, he led the band Jazz de Paris. His son, Philippe, was also a drummer.
Combelle passed away on March 2, 1978, in Mantes-la-Jolie, France.
- “Alix Combelle 1935-1940”– This album showcases Combelle’s unique approach to jazz, combining classical music with jazz and Latin American rhythms.
- “Alix Combelle 1940-1941”– This album, released in 1941, is a testament to Combelle’s unique and personal performance style.
- “Alix Combelle 1942-1943”– This 1943 recording showcases Combelle’s innovative approach to music.
- “The Swinging Mister Alix: 1937–1942”– This album features collaborations with other musicians and showcases Combelle’s ability to create captivating jazz compositions.
- “Sur Les Bords de l’Alamo (On the Alamo)”– This track showcases Combelle’s unique musical style.
- “L’ Horloge de Grand-Pére (Grandfather’s Clock)”– This track provides a glimpse into Combelle’s musical genius and his ability to create unique jazz compositions.
- “Parade des Remparts du Sud (South Rampart Street Parade)”– This track showcases Combelle’s incorporation of Latin American rhythms into his music.
- “Fou (Mad)”– This track provides a comprehensive overview of Combelle’s musical journey.
- “Dansez 1 Swing”– This track, released in 1955, showcases Combelle’s unique fusion of classical music with jazz.
- “Rock and Roll 3”– This track, released in 1956, showcases Combelle’s innovative approach to music.
