Metropolitan Klezmer in free concert

Hailed as “one of the finest American klezmer bands” by Songlines Magazine (UK), Metropolitan Klezmer will perform at the Sol Sern Memorial Concert at Temple Beth O’r/Beth Torah in Clark on Sunday, Jan. 28 at 3 p.m. 

Formed in 1994 by drummer and leader Eve Sicular, this collaborative adventure of exceptional New York musicians brings exuberance to Yiddish musical genres from all over the map. Their performances incorporate wedding dance, folk, swing, and tango styles, as well as soundtrack material from vintage Yiddish films, re-inventing tradition with both irreverence and respect. 

Critics have hailed their ability to create “a smooth balance between classic klezmer sounds and bold new interpretations, for bringing back forgotten Soviet Yiddish theatre hits, and experimenting with Latin jazz or reggae fusion.”

“Klezmer is a very popular musical tradition that is essentially Jewish soul music from Eastern Europe,” according to the temple’s Cantor Steven Stern. “Metropolitan Klezmer’s interpretations are unique and exhilarating. They last performed in our synagogue four years ago to an enthusiastic full house, and we are delighted to have them back again for an encore performance. The concert honors the memory of Sol Sern, who was a most beloved member of our congregation.”

Get New Jersey Jewish News's Newsletter by email and never miss our top stories Free Sign Up

Appearing as part of the group will be vocalist Melissa Fogarty. She has been praised by critics as a “formidable presence” on stage who can belt out passages in “saucy, somber, and playful” styles. 

The program is free and open to the public and is made possible by a HEART Grant from the Union County Freeholders and the TBOBT Sol Sern Memorial Fund. For more information about upcoming programs, visit bethorbethtorah.org.