Dirk Schelenz is the rhythm guitarist in Andre Hermlins Swing Dance Orchestra from Berlin. This orchestra is devoted to the reproduction of the authentic orchestra Swing sound of the 40's and 30's, predominantly with US-repertoire. This true-to-the-original imitation of this style begins with the instruments and goes up to the entire outfit of the orchestra in the style of the 40's. Therefore Dirk Schelenz ordered a J18X non-cutaway, which matches exactly the style of the instruments of his colleagues and the style of the orchestra. The instrument must cut through in the orchestra unamplified, like they used the guitars in the early times of the big bands befor the pickups where introduced to amplify the guitars. Andrej Hermlin and the musicians of that band like the sound of Dirk Schelenz‘ J18 very much and aprove this instrument fulfills its function to the fullest satisfaction. They who want to convince themself of it, should listen to a concert of the marvelous big band. The tour dates and of course all need-to-know can be found on their Homepage.