telynor's Full Review: In the Fiddler's House by Itzhak Perlman
Yep. Just what the title says, Soul Music. This CD is an accompaniment to the PBS Great Performances Special that Itzhak Perlman did with a wide selection of klezmer bands, reaching deep into the roots of Jewish folk music.
Klezmer is a wild mix of classical, gypsy, folk and ancient musical styles that's been constantly changing and evolving over the centuries. Affectionately known as "Klez," it has been making a recent comeback, mostly due to terrific bands such as the Klezmer Conservatory Band and Klezmatics. Klezmer was a thriving tradition in America and Europe until the Holocaust, when many of the musicians vanished in those terrible times. Klezmer would be played at weddings, and Purim and Simchat Torah, indeed, at any time a good time and celebration was called for. It also has been an expression of emotion, ranging from the silly, to happy, sad, sorrowful, mourning and rejoicing being sung through the music.
Now, for the other half of this title -- Itzhak Perlman is one of the greatest classical violinists that we have in our times. Deciding to explore the roots of his cultural background, he traveled to several bands, and got the chance to play with them, with excellent results. In the liner notes, he describes this as music you would hear if you came to his home and there was a jam session.
Track listings:
1. Reb Itzik's Nign -- A 'Nign' is a particular musical form, more of an improvision than anything else. 'Reb' is a term of respect in Yiddish. So - this is Mr. Perlman's own gesture to the art of Klezmer.
2. Simkhes Toyre Time -- Simcha Torah is a holiday celebrating the giving of the Torah to the Jewish people, and there is a lot of dancing. And of course, when you dance, it helps to have some music as well. This tune helps. A lot.
3. Flatbush Waltz -- Evoking the old Jewish neighborhoods of Brooklyn, this tune is a bit melancholy, but very nice to listen to.
4. Wedding Medley - (with The Klezmer Conservatory Band) This one has to be one of my favorite cuts off this CD. Happy, with just a touch of sadness underneath, it is by turns stately, happy, and moving.
5. Dybbuk Shers - (with The Klezmatics)
6. Basarabye - (with Brave Old World) This is a traditional dance tune.
7. Firn Di Mekhutonim Aheym 8. Tati Un Mama Tants 9. Fisherlid / Khosidl - (with The Klezmatics)
10. Der Alter Bulgar - (with Andy Statman)
11. Ale Brider 12. Honga Written in a rollicking 13/16 time, this music moves! I challenge anyone to stay still during this tune.
13. Doyna & Skotshna 14. Der Heyser Bulgar 15. Di Gayster - (with The Klezmatics)
I would recommend this album for anyone who wants an introduction to traditional Jewish folk music. The bands that participated here with Mr. Perlman are excellent, and this CD gives an opportunity to get a taste of their music before going and purchasing one of their albums for a deeper listening to.
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This review was written as part of a Passover write-off. Please read the following participant's entries for additional Passover reviews. This list of participants may grow as it continues all eight days of Passover, so be sure to check back here for additional names.
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