Frog & Henry

Frog & Henry, the vintage heart that makes Ascona dance

Frog & Henry are now practically at home in Ascona, so much so that it’s hard to imagine the festival without their enthusiasm, good humor, and music. Winners of the AET Audience Award 2022, Frog & Henry were born in New Orleans as a collective of young musicians from various street bands, performing dance music and early 20th-century jazz. Their repertoire revives forgotten songs from the dawn of recorded music, designed to get audiences moving. Influences include The Dixieland Jug Blowers, Lionel Belasco, King Oliver, and Johnny Dodds. Following the tradition of the early New Orleans string bands, they combine violin and banjo with clarinet and sax. This year, we will see them in a lineup that also includes a pianist and double bass. Every performance is a lively and surprising experience.