Klezmer: A Musical Tradition

The tale of klezmer music is both rich and full. The term klezmer, meaning a vessel of songs, explains the natural ability for us as humans to express ourselves through song, whether instrumental or vocal. Encompassing a variety of styles of music, klezmer music incorporates gypsy music, Russian folk music, and dance songs to become an extension of the human voice. This presentation traces the deep history of klezmer music from its earliest beginnings through World War II, where the klezmer music genre almost became extinct, and to its revitalization and preservation beginning in the 1960’s. In addition, it introduces the variety of components and characteristics of klezmer music. The klezmer music tradition continues to be appreciated globally by different peoples through the efforts of groups like the Cincinnati Klezmer Project whose purpose is to preserve the sounds and stories of a culture for the enjoyment and enrichment of future generations