Pierre Blanchard

Pierre Blanchard is a renowned French jazz violinist and composer, celebrated for his unique contributions to the genre. Born in 1956, Blanchard's musical journey began with a strong foundation in classical music, earning First Prize for Violin from the Conservatoire of Saint-Quentin in 1971 and a First Prize from the International Music University of Paris. His passion for improvisation led him to explore jazz, where he quickly made a name for himself.

Blanchard's career took a significant turn when he was discovered by the legendary Stéphane Grappelli in 1984, which marked the beginning of his rise as one of the leading jazz violinists of his generation. He has since performed with notable ensembles, including the Martial Solal Big Band, and has released several acclaimed albums, such as "Rendez-vous" and "Movies & Gypsies." Beyond his performances, Blanchard is also a respected educator, serving as a professor at CRR93 and authoring renowned jazz violin methods, inspiring the next generation of musicians. His work is a testament to his versatility and deep understanding of both classical and jazz traditions, making him a standout figure in the world of French jazz.