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Mahurangi music lovers have the chance to experience an evening of toe-tapping Eastern European klezmer music when New Zealand ensemble The Kugels perform in Matakana this month.
Klezmer is the folk idiom of the Jewish people, typically heard at dance halls and weddings. It features wild dances and heartfelt laments.
The concert will include traditional music woven together with original pieces written by Kugel’s accordionist Ross Harris, an award winning composer and New Zealand Arts Laureate.
The ensemble also features Debbie Rawson, head of woodwind at Victoria University, who plays soprano sax, clarinet, bass clarinet and Maui Xaphoon – a single reed woodwind instrument.
Other members of the group are former NZ Symphony Orchestra violinist, Robin Perks, and well-known
Wellington freelance musician Jacs Nordon on double bass.
In addition to playing, the musicians will also give a commentary providing information about the music and the instruments they play.
The concert is presented in association with Chamber Music New Zealand.
The Kugels play at the Matakana Village Hall on Saturday, September 8 at 5pm. Tickets $35 at the door, school students free.
