Klezmer Music is a style of music that is inherently Jewish in nature. The word Klezmer comes from two Hebrew words, clay and zimmer, meaning vessel of music or song. The idea is that the instrument - the violin, clarinet - takes on human characteristics like laughing and crying, with joyous exuberance or soulful wailing.
Klezmer music was a product of Eastern European Yiddish Culture which Jewish immigrants brought with them to the United States in the 1880s. Klezmer musicians (also called Klezmorim) were an informal group of musicians. Many were itinerants who went from village to village in Eastern Europe, playing traditional music, folk songs, folk dances and solemn hymns before prayers.
These musicians rarely knew how to read music. They earned very little money and had to keep moving, seeking out country fairs, weddings, synagogue dedications, Purim festivities. Although untrained in any formal sense, many were extremely gifted musicians whose playing was so superior that Polish nobles often engaged them.
A typical group contained three to six musicians playing trumpets, bugles, flutes, clarinets, fifes, violins, cellos and drums. In some ways Klezmer music was like Jazz combos in that it grew out of improvisation, ingenious harmonizations and solo innovations.
From "Joys of Yiddish" by Leo Rosten
"You were wonderful!! You always are! Thank you for volunteering your time and energy at the festival this year. You always bring the largest crowd into the ballroom. I love listening to the band and watching the dynamic dancing. Thanks for sharing your gifts with us!"—CM, Washington Folk Festival
"Machaya's music, combined with Jay's dance leadership and the fantastic energy of the band, was without doubt the highlight of our wedding party. I recommend Machaya for any couple seeking to add a joyous and original flavor to their wedding—grounded in tradition, but contemporary and accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds."—Zahara Heckscher, Washington, DC
"Machaya played at my daughter's wedding, and the music was great. In addition to their own repertoire, they agreed to learn some new pieces (not "typical" Klezmer) that we wanted for the ceremony. And, as promised, they performed a rousing hora, which got the crowd off to high party mode! Having had much experience with weddings, Barbara Hess provided incredible support. She had many helpful suggestions concerning the wedding logistics and really helped things run smoothly. So, here's to Machaya! Party on!"—Fran G., Washington, DC
"Everyone raved about the band. You not only made the party, you made me famous!"—AK, Williamsburg
Machaya is happy to provide references from satisfied customers.
Machaya Klezmer Band brings the rich traditions of Eastern European Jewish music to life with authentic performances that touch the heart and move the soul. Our passionate musicians honor the legacy of klezmer while making it accessible to modern audiences.
With years of experience performing at weddings, festivals, cultural events, and celebrations, we specialize in creating unforgettable musical experiences that connect people to their heritage and bring joy to every occasion.
🎵 Enjoy authentic, moderately-volumed klezmer, rock, swing, classical, Israeli, international music. We offer nearly all types of music with highest professional quality. Volume is always a key sensitivity - we are never too loud!
💃 Experience an exciting and spirited wedding, including traditional tish and bedeken music.
🕺 Involve all guests with Jay's famous klezmer dance leading. Band Director Jay McCrensky is the originator of klezmer dancing popular across the US!
🎉 Enthuse bar mitzvah friends through Jay's acclaimed, innovative and involving teen games and game leading skills.
🎼 Plan through our flexibility of 2 to 8 musicians. We also provide DJs and dancers.
✅ Trust our experience and quality. Barbara's party planning experience comes free with the band to help assure a smooth running, well-timed, dynamic affair.
🗺️ We travel. Our home base is Washington, DC, Maryland, and Virginia, but we perform concerts and private affairs in New England, New York, New Jersey and across the US.
Dave Tarras, Performed by Machaya Klezmer Band
Traditional, Performed by Machaya Klezmer Band
Naftuli Brandwein, Performed by Machaya Klezmer Band
Traditional, Performed by Machaya Klezmer Band
Traditional, Performed by Machaya Klezmer Band
Whether you're planning a wedding, bar/bat mitzvah, festival, or cultural celebration, Machaya Klezmer Band will bring authentic Jewish music and joy to your special occasion.
Barbara Hess, Director
Phone: (301) 404-6273
Jay McCrensky
Phone: (301) 461-4444
Email: machayaklezmer@gmail.com
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