Brahms, Balkans & Bagels explores how folk traditions have inspired the great classical composers. How did Hungarian folk melodies shake up Franz Liszt? What traces did klezmer leave in Gustav Mahler’s works? How did Zoltán Kodály preserve the rustic flavor of peasant songs in his symphonies?
In this colorful concert, classical and folk traditions stand on equal footing, intertwined in touching and virtuosic arrangements. Sometimes festive, sometimes reflective, the music draws tears caught between laughter and emotion, guided by klezmer’s lively dances and ornamentations.