Marcel Azzola was a highly regarded French accordionist who left an indelible mark on the music scene with his versatile playing styles, including musette, jazz, and chanson. Born on July 10, 1927, in Paris, France, he grew into his musicianship in the vibrant post-war period, a time when the Parisian music scene was ripe with innovation and cross-cultural influences.

Azzola gained prominence in the musette genre—a style typically associated with the dance halls of Paris—and played a significant role in reviving the form. His prowess on the accordion led him to collaborate with a range of celebrated artists, notably working with chanteuse Edith Piaf, and he was lovingly nicknamed "Monsieur Accordéon." However, he was not limited to traditional French music; his album 'Jazzola' stands as a testament to his skillful adaptation of the accordion to jazz idioms. Over the decades, Marcel Azzola enriched the soundscape of accordion music, and through his recording 'Et ça tournait - Anthologie de la chanson musette,' he provided a historical anthology capturing the essence of the musette genre. His collaborations, such as 'Lina & Marcel' with his long-time partner Lina Bossatti, showcased his continued relevance and adaptability within the musical landscape. Azzola's death on January 21, 2019, marked the end of an era, but his legacy endures as a defining figure who expanded the possibilities of the accordion in modern music.

Genres

Bal-musette

Jazz Accordion

Latest Release

Jouer

Marcel Azzola

Album - 10 Tracks - Released April 5, 2024