Delightful klezmer tones enlivened the synagogue

Jews and their culture are an inseparable part ofKosice’s history. These remarkable people built several synagogues in the city prior to 1939. One is onPuškinova Street. This is the one which came to life with the tones of the local Kaschauer Klezmer Band.

The synagogue onPuškinova Streetserved orthodox Jews. It was built in 1927 – together with the current House of Art. The entrance gate is beautifully decorated and it was a real pity that this gate wasn’t used for entry to the synagogue this Saturday. Entry was via the side gate and those who came late were out of luck. Volunteers giving skull caps to the men were pushed to one side by the mass of people. There were around 300 to 400 people in the synagogue. The building simply caught the attention of the public. Of course it would, since they have little opportunity to walk inside it every day. Right in the middle there is an elevated place for reading the Torah and the film crew now occupied this place. The front part was reserved for the musicians and, compared to the crew, they were seated much lower down.  People crowded at the back had quite a limited view. However, the concert was definitely a great experience.

Let’s say a few more words about the Kaschauer Klezmer Band. The first inspiration for its establishment was a declaration by clarinettist Vlado Sidimák that we wanted to play klezmer music and put a band together. Double bass player, Palo Šalamon, agreed enthusiastically and on 24 January 2001 they formed the Kaschauer Klezmer Band. They invited other enthusiasts who studied intensively (and still study) records by European klezmer ensembles and American orchestras, and started to build up their own repertoire. At present they interpret klezmer music soaked in the musical traditions ofEastern Europe, mainly Balkan as well as Slovak and gypsy folklore, and they also add elements of classical and contemporary music.

I attended the band’s first concert in summer 2012 at the Mazal Tov Festival and the music spoke to me. It’s dynamic, spontaneous, and full of melodies and catchy rhythms. It’s dominated by the clarinet, from the guts of which Vlado magically produces one motif after another, and now and again he “cuts” a fantastic solo. Another driving force is the first violinist who catches the attention with beautiful main strains. The flute has a charming sound and the excellent music is also coloured by an accordion, second violin and acoustic guitar. The rhythm is guided by Palo’s double bass which at first hearing is floating in the background but it wouldn’t be right without its contribution. The brisk tones couldn’t even be missed by those standing helplessly outside the doors of the synagogue. Klezmer is a really interesting connection of various styles. By being enriched by modern elements or classical music, it excellently brings ancient Jewishart into the present. It’s acceptable for all ages – this music would definitely grab not just those in the mood for dancing.

The Kaschauer Klezmer Band concert was an exceptional experience, enhanced by the natural Jewishenvironment. Their approach to Jewishmusic is perhaps not as innovative as in the case of the Mojše Band, but the enthusiasm and effort and hard work fully balanced this small disadvantage. This is no doubt that the band, now celebrating its second anniversary, will fill the hearts of people with joy for many years to come and in many countries. Not mentioning that (together with Kashover) it is one of the very few exportable local commodities.