Franco Cerri

Franco Cerri is not only one of the world's most popular and most authoritative Italian guitarists, but is also one of the most important stylists in the European jazz world. He began his long and prolific career in 1945 with Gorni Kramer and in 1949 he accompanied Django Reinhardt. In the 1950's he worked with notable jazz musicians including Chet Baker, Gerry Mulligan, Billie Holiday and Lee Konitz. He also led modern jazz quartet or quintet and became a leader in the Italian and European jazz world. On 1 January 2006, he was named "Commendatore della Repubblica" (official title awarded for service to Italy) by President of the Italian Republic Carlo Azeglio Ciampi. Father of Stefano Cerri.