larry franco

musician

Larry Franco, winner of the “Best Jazz Singer 2008” award and Jazz Singing professor at the “G. Paisiello” Conservatory in Taranto, is the charismatic pianist and vocalist who has enriched Salento Swing People events with passion and professionalism since 2018.

With over thirty years of career and 21 albums released, Larry is a pianist, singer, arranger, and leader of various jazz ensembles. His musical journey began at the age of six with piano studies, followed by years as a Big Band singer, ultimately becoming one of the leading figures of the national and international swing scene. Between 1994 and 1995, he refined his craft in Los Angeles under the guidance of Maestro Gene Merlino, and since 1997, he has performed at major jazz festivals worldwide—from Tokyo to Dubai, Stockholm to Havana, and across Australia, India, Ethiopia, the UK, Morocco, and the United States. Named “Ambassador of Italian Jazz in the World” by the Italian Cultural Institutes, Larry has collaborated with legendary artists such as Nicola Arigliano, Franco D’Andrea, Fabrizio Bosso, Jimmy Cobb, Renato Sellani, Gunhild Carling, and many others.

Salento Swing People considers it a true privilege to collaborate with one of the most respected swing musicians from Puglia. As leader of multiple ensembles, Larry brings together renowned national and international musicians, creating fresh arrangements that span the rhythms of lindy hop and balboa to the vibrant energy of charleston. His solo jazz arrangements and improvisations engage both seasoned dancers and beginners, turning each performance into a fully immersive vintage experience.

His ongoing presence — from themed parties to workshops, up to the Salento Swing Festival stage — highlights the deep connection between the artist and the association, helping transform every event into an emotional journey through swing history.