Klezmer from the New World

Susi Evans (clarinet) and Szilvia Csaranko (accordion & piano) are two exceptional musicians who are passionate about the tradition of klezmer music. They give concerts and teach in various projects worldwide.

Their program Klezmer from the New World is a selection of tunes from the repertoire of the legendary klezmer clarinettist Dave Tarras (1897-1989). Born in Ukraine, he migrated to New York in the 1920s and created a whole new American sound in Yiddish music by combining the traditional wedding music of the old world of Bessarabia with swing and other popular western styles of music. In the course of his life he played at thousands of Jewish weddings, made 500 sound recordings and was hailed “the Benny Goodman of klezmer”.

Like Dave Tarras himself, Susi & Szilvia embark on a journey through different cultures and genres that have always influenced klezmer music. From Tarras’ extensive and varied repertoire they have selected the most beautiful, interesting and lesser-known pieces of Yiddish wedding music, theater music and Greek, Polish, Russian, Rumanian and Moldovan tunes.

Tarras set high standards of virtuosity and musicality and Susi & Szilvia settle for nothing less with their impressive conservatoire technique, innate sensitivity and effortless connection.

“Their playing is simply gorgeous and breathtaking”.

Alan Bern, Artistic Director, Yiddish Summer Weimar

Susi Evans – clarinet (London/UK) – www.susievans.com

Szilvia Csaranko – accordion & piano (Hannover/D) – www.szilviacsaranko.de