The Indiana-based, five-member ensemble INDYKLEZ will perform as part of the Indiana State University School of Music's Visiting Artist Series at 7:30 p.m. Sept. 20.
INDYKLEZ is central Indiana's premiere Klezmer Band. Founded in 2002 by violinist Ginny Womack, the group brings to life the rich tradition of Jewish soul music in which the players become "instruments of song." Comprised of violin, clarinet, bass, accordion and male vocalist, the ensemble "expresses the dreams, hopes, sorrows and joys of the world" by performing a variety of folk music, which originated in eastern Europe.
In the klezmer style, folk songs and other works receive treatment that contains elements of classical, jazz, pop and Hebrew cantorial traditions, all creating interesting, exciting, and ultimately soulful music. The haunting melodies and vibrant dance rhythms are like "richly mellowed wine in an ancient vessel."
Steeped in a wide array of talent, the members of INDYKLEZ bring a special blend of musical expertise to each performance. The group boasts a wealth of professional experience in its membership, from an off-Broadway singer/actor to studio musicians and international symphony players.
Members performing in Terre Haute will be Ginny Womack, violinist and leader (Indianapolis-based freelance musician), Becky Chappell, clarinet (music/music business professor at Anderson University), Garry Wasserman, double bass (music faculty at Ohio University), Rick Vale, vocalist (senior pastor, Central Christian Church, Anderson, Ind.), and Ted Piechocinski, accordion (music business professor at Indiana State's School of Music).
INDYKLEZ has appeared in concert with the Indianapolis Children's Choir, with members of the Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra, for Fringe Fest 2010, at Anderson University, Ball State University and Earlham College, as well as numerous congregations and community centers around central Indiana. In the 2007, INDYKLEZ played at the 32nd annual Coalition for the Advancement of Jewish Education Conference in St. Louis.
In addition to providing entertainment for social functions and community events, INDYKLEZ is dedicated to providing educational programs to a variety of audiences. Their program The Diaspora and the Homecoming is a celebration of survival told in music and story.
The Indiana State concert is free and open to the public. It will be held in the recital hall of the Landini Center for the Performing and Fine Arts, located at the corner of 7th and Chestnut streets in Terre Haute.
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Contact: Ted Piechocinski, associate professor, Indiana State University School of Music, 812-841-3229 or Ted.Piechocinski@indstate.edu