Hubert Rostaing: A Jazz Legend
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Hubert Rostaing was born on September 17, 1918, in Lyon, France. His musical journey began in Algiers with the “Red Hotters” and later moved to Paris. Rostaing learned to play the clarinet and saxophone during his boyhood in Algeria, and made his jazz debut in clubs in Algiers during the 1930s.
Rise to Fame
Rostaing is perhaps best known for playing clarinet or saxophone in Django Reinhardt’s quintet. His most known performance in that role might be his playing clarinet on Nuages. He was a relatively minor figure in jazz history, but he will always be remembered as Stephane Grappelli’s successor with Django Reinhardt’s Quintet of the Hot Club of France.
Transition to Film and Classical Music
After 1962, Rostaing left jazz for film composing and classical music. He was orchestrator, conductor, or arranger for over 20 French films. He was a composer and actor, known for The Tenant (1976), Cop or Hood (1979) and The Big Feast (1973).
Personal Life
Rostaing was married to Claudette Conquet. He was a French saxophonist and clarinet player who became a legend on the Paris jazz circuit in the 1940s.
Legacy and Influence
Rostaing’s contributions to jazz and his transition to film and classical music have left a lasting impact on the music industry. His work with Django Reinhardt’s Quintet of the Hot Club of France is still celebrated today.
Death and Posthumous Recognition
Hubert Rostaing passed away on June 10, 1990, in Paris, France.
- “Nuages” by Django Reinhardt’s Quintet: This is one of the most famous performances by Hubert Rostaing, where he played the clarinet. The song is a classic example of gypsy jazz.
- “Hésitation” by Hubert Rostaing & Stan Brenders et son grand orchestre de danse: This recording showcases Rostaing’s skill on the saxophone and his ability to blend seamlessly with an orchestra.
- “Mop. Mop.” by Hubert Rostaing et son orchestre: This track is a great example of Rostaing’s jazz compositions and his mastery of the clarinet.
- “November Blues” by Hubert Rostaing et son orchestre: This composition showcases Rostaing’s ability to evoke emotion through his music.
- “La première fois” by René Urtreger / Hubert Rostaing: This soundtrack piece demonstrates Rostaing’s transition from jazz to film composing.
- “Candide ou l’optimisme au XXe siècle” (1960): This is one of the films for which Rostaing was the orchestrator, conductor, or arranger.
- “The Tenant” (1976): Rostaing was a composer for this film, showcasing his versatility and talent in creating mood and atmosphere through music.
- “Cop or Hood” (1979): Another film for which Rostaing composed the music, further establishing his reputation in the film industry.
- “The Big Feast” (1973): This film features Rostaing’s music, demonstrating his ability to enhance the storytelling through his compositions.
- “Mohican” by Hubert Rostaing & Stan Brenders et son grand orchestre de danse: This recording is a testament to Rostaing’s skill and versatility as a musician.
