Klezmer Music

Klezmer music is secular music that originates in eastern Europe and came to North America along with the Ashkenazi immigrants who played and enjoyed it. Klezmer literally translates as "musical instruments". Traditional klezmer instruments include clarinet, violin, accordian, double bass and voice, although other instruments such as drums, trumpet, flute, cello and keyboard may join in. It is often combined with influences from jazz. Today Klezmer music is played at Jewish celebrations such as weddings. Congregation Shir Chadash has klezmorim (people who play klezmer music) who enhance our celebrations, and who have named themselves the Heise Latkes (hot potato pancakes!). Click here to listen to samples of klezmer music.