Ramsy Irani – Jazz Guitarist and Vocalist
Ramsy Irani is a Belgian jazz guitarist, singer, and composer whose warm acoustic sound and lyrical phrasing have made him a distinctive voice in the Jazz scene.
Early Years
Ramsy discovered the guitar as a late teenager, instantly captivated by the expressive power of the instrument. His earliest influence was Jimi Hendrix, whose energy and creativity sparked Ramsy’s desire to explore music more deeply.
During his student years, he formed his first band as a guitarist – singer songwriter, The Orphan, marking his initial steps onto the stage.
Although he first pursued studies in philosophy and communication, jazz music gradually took over his path — leading him toward a full-time artistic career.
Musical Education
A turning point came in 2004, when Ramsy attended Jazz au Vert and met guitarist Paolo Radoni, who encouraged him to commit to jazz professionally.
He went on to study at the Royal Conservatory of Brussels, where he trained with notable musicians such as Jean-Louis Rassinfosse, Fabrice Alleman, Pirly Zurstrassen, and Paolo Radoni himself.
In 2009, Ramsy earned his Master’s degree in Jazz Guitar from the Royal Conservatory of Antwerp, studying under acclaimed artists including Martijn van Iterson and Hendrik Braeckman.
He has also enriched his musical approach through masterclasses with international names such as Nelson Veras, Martin Taylor, and Jonathan Kreisberg.
Artistic Career
Ramsy is best known as the founder and driving force behind Les Tzigales, an ensemble blending swing, musette, and Gypsy Jazz. With the group, he performs both as guitarist and vocalist, crafting a warm and melodic sound.
His discography with Les Tzigales includes:
- The Gypsy (2013)
- Anima Amici (2015), featuring violinist Alexandre Tripodi
- J’aimerais te dire (2019), featuring trumpeter Marie-Anne Standaert
Today Ramsy collaborates in several other projects:
- B.R.U.T! – a trio with mainly originals as repertoire,
- Anima Amici – exploring lyrical Latin and jazz influences
- L’Oiseau Lyre – a Gypsy/ Swing Jazz ensemble
Teaching
In addition to performing, Ramsy is a passionate educator. He teaches Pop and Jazz at the Academy of Sint-Niklaas, guiding young musicians in improvisation, jazz technique, and artistic expression.
Today
Ramsy performs regularly across Belgium in jazz clubs, cultural centers, and festivals. His style embraces a wide palette. His musical identity is warm, melodic, and deeply connected to the acoustic tradition — yet always evolving as he develops new material and collaborations.