‘Leo’s music is much more conversational: a group of friends sitting together, having a good time, exploring what might be played, supporting each other’s impulses to form a gentle small community.’ Jazz Lives

‘Heartfelt feelings ring true as the band performs’. OffBeat Magazine

Leo Forde is a Scottish guitarist and composer based in New Orleans, LA. Leo was raised in the Scottish folk tradition, playing the bagpipes from an early age, which annoyed most people. Having switched to the guitar, he studied music at the University of Strathclyde and Birmingham Conservatiore. His interest in the music of Django Reinhardt and free improvisation led him to continue his studies with guitarists Pat Martino, Joe Morris and Gypsy Swing legend Lolo Meier in Holland.

Forde has performed as a featured artist nationally and internationally at a number of festivals including New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, Celtic Connections, Instanbul Jazz Festival, Lorient International Festival (Brittany), Megeve International Jazz Festival (France) , Outono Festival (Spain) and many others. He has recorded on more that a dozen studio albums, including two as leader, and enjoys working regularly with The Hot Club of New Orleans, Aurora Nealand, Meschiya Lake and Double Whisky.

Forde keeps a busy schedule in New Orleans where he can be found at clubs such as the Spotted Cat and every Wednesday at Cafe Degas. He enjoys it when it rains and is trying his best to stay out of trouble.