The New Orleans Swinging Gypsies embody the spirit of the classic swing era, evolving swing music into a form of post modern New Orleans swing.
NOCCA graduate and New Orleans native, lead guitarist John Saavedra founded this band in 2014. The Swinging Gypsies have been featured on ESPN Monday night football, NCIS, WWOZ, Offbeat Magazine, The Syncopated Times Magazine, L.A. Jazz Scene Publication, WWLTv channel 4 news, French Quarter Festival, Gretna Festival, The Leroy Jones story on Prime Tv, Hey Mister Jesse! Podcast based in San Francisco, and Rochester NY WGMC Jazz.
Their album “Hot Boudin”, was produced by Randy Crafton, a prominent engineer based in New York City, who’s worked with legends Aretha Franklin and the Mingus Big Band.
This new age bopping band pushes the limits of swing into their own fusion of unique sounds that vibrate with a passionate flare. John (guitar/vocals) along with Giselle (vocals/dance) provide an atmosphere that is both enticing and joyful for all who experience their music.
"If you want to hear some clean fresh recordings of some of Reinhardt’s best works with a slightly New Orleans flair, this sextet is for you. Like a punk band ripping into pop chestnuts, they’re faster, brighter, sprightlier and livelier than the originals, which is saying something when it comes to Django.
The Swinging Gypsies are a rotating group of artists and performers, with John and Giselle in the forefront singing, playing and dancing
John Saavedra, a native New Orleanian creates a dynamic sound of guitar licks and soulful singing that entices the spirit. Giselle Anguizola, sings and performs swing dances while bridging the gap between audience and performer.
Expect a high energy ensemble that engages the senses and unites all.
John Saavedra
Guitar/Vocals
John Saavedra is primarily influenced by Django Reinhardt and New Orleans swing, a sound that embodies gypsy swing rhythm with traditional swing. His soulful voice and expressive guitar playing are a sight and sound not to be missed. As a local New Orleanian, John was featured as a guest performer on NCIS and co-wrote a song for the show, he was also contracted by ESPN for a live snippet of the band during Monday football. From french gypsy jazz to New Orleans swing, John adds elements from this gumbo of sounds to create a unique type of playing that brings people together.
Giselle Anguizola
Dance/Vocals
Giselle Anguizola has dedicated her life to swing era dances for twenty years. She has been an unmissable voice in the swing dance community and has recently devoted herself to combining vintage dance with singing as part of her performance. She's highly influenced by Cab Calloway, Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, Amy Whinehouse and loves bringing the music to life. One of the top proponents of syncopated footwork, personal style, improvisation and communication - Giselle will breathe rhythmic life into any dance, class, or stage appearance.
