1923 — 1999
Biography
From Bois-Colombes to Sète, the story of a self-taught musician who became the reference for vibraphone, friend of Lionel Hampton, recognized by critics and musicians alike.
Europe's first vibraphonist
Geo Daly
1923
1999
Pioneer of the European vibraphone
"Only he can replace me!" — Lionel Hampton, 1979
Geo Daly, Vibraphonist
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In 1950s America, the greatest names of contemporary jazz regarded him as Europe's leading vibraphonist. Lionel HAMPTON (the world n°1) considered him his equal.
Geo DALY's style, his "swing", the beauty of his compositions made him an exceptional musician with the most diverse abilities. An audience could listen to his dazzling solo variations, or let themselves be carried away by the dancing rhythms of his vibraphone, for he never forgot that jazz is above all music made for dancing, and never allowed himself interpretations devoid of rhythm.
He knew the art of "warming up" a room.
All of Paris heard him at La Rose Rouge and the Saint-Germain Club (Temple of jazz). His concerts on French public radio, as well as his appearances at the Olympia and the Alhambra.
Geo DALY always knew how to surround himself with the finest musicians, forming a homogeneous ensemble ready to meet the demands and tastes of the most diverse audiences…
Play the vibraphone
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Click on the bars or use your keyboard to play the notes. A gesture to touch the soul of an instrument he made sing on the greatest stages.
Q S D F G H J K L M — keyboard keys
A life of jazz
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1949 — 1986
Discography
Over 150 recorded tracks: Swing 78s, Vogue, Columbia, Barclay, Sonorop records, film scores (Tati, Dassin), and many more labels.
Parisian Jazz
Musical extracts
Don Byas, Tati, Michel Magne, Jet Quartet, Sidney Bechet… listen to the historic recordings that marked his career.
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A memory to share?
If you knew Geo Daly, own recordings, photographs, memories or archives, your testimony is precious. Do not hesitate to get in touch.
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