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So, What Is Klezmer, Really?

01/23/2025 12:49:17 PM

Jan23

By Cantor Jacob Niemi

Modern usage of the term klezmer as a genre of Jewish folk music only dates back to around 1980, yet the word was used as early as the 18th century. 

A klezmer (Yiddish shortening of the Hebrew kli zemer, meaning “vessel/instrument of song”) was a professional instrumental musician, usually Jewish, who played in a band hired for special occasions in eastern European communities. These musicians, or klezmorim, found a niche in rapidly growing towns and cities, playing for celebrations (most commonly weddings) as well as in private homes.

In the United States, many klezmorim moved beyond specifically Jewish work to join mainstream dance bands by the 1930s, creating a hybrid “Yiddish swing” genre. Klezmer faded from the U.S. music scene after the Holocaust, which cut off American klezmer from its eastern European roots. In the mid-1970s, younger American musicians from varying backgrounds rediscovered this “roots” music genre, sought out the surviving old masters, and revitalized the style. 

Since its revival, klezmer has come to refer to the whole ramified scene of local, touring, and recording bands that have formed since the 1970s and ’80s. While the term continues to evolve, the music survives as well, growing and evolving, enriching the landscape of Jewish culture in America, connecting us to our history through our listening ears and our dancing feet.

Sample a few klezmer favorites at yidvicious.com/listen and join us on Saturday, March 1, at 7:00 pm for a fun, family-friendly concert featuring Madison’s beloved klezmer band, Yid Vicious. Their award-winning music brings Yiddish music to life and has delighted audiences all over the world. Learn more and register now!

April 29, 2025 1 Iyar 5785