An ecstatic exploration into the past, present, and future of klezmer music – the traditional celebratory music of the Ashkenazi Jews.
Hailing from Western Massachusetts, Myrtle Street Klezmer is an ecstatic exploration into the past, present, and future of Klezmer music – the traditional celebratory music of the Ashkenazi Jews. Our high-energy music draws on Balkan, Greek, Arabic, Rock, and Jazz music, in addition to favorites from the classic and contemporary Klezmer repertoire. MSK works in the tradition of the old-world klezmer musicians, singing in Yiddish, Hebrew, and Ladino, and teaching audiences about the background and meaning of the music and culture. Since 2021, we have been connecting with audiences through performances, workshops, and presentations across New England.
Core members include Jason Ditzian (bandleader, clarinet), Myk Freedman (guitar), Jesse Olsen Bay (vocals, bass, bouzouki, percussion), Bea Carlson (vocals, accordion), and Doug Plavin (percussion). MSK has received awards/support from the Massachusetts Cultural Council, New England Foundation for the Arts, and the Harold Grinspoon Foundation, among others.
Upcoming Events
September 18 - Mariposa Museum, Peterborough, NH
September 19 - Chocolate Church Art Center, Bath, ME
September 20 - Kennebunk Farmers Market, Kennebunk, ME
September 20 - 1794 Meetinghouse, New Salem, MA
Oct 4 - Barn Fest, Shelburne Falls, MA
March 7 - Full Moon Coffeehouse, Wendell, MA
Past Events
6.1.25 - World Music Mini-Fest, Turners Falls, MA
5.2.25 - Deja Brew, Wendell, MA
4.27.25 - Klezmer Brunch, Iron Horse, Northampton, MA
12.22.24 - Winter Klezmer Carnival, Iron Horse, Northampton, MA
12.11.24 - Montague Common Hall , Montague, MA (w/ Tev Stevig)
10.19.24 - Nova Arts, Keene, NH
9.13.24 - The Abode of the Message, New Lebanon, NY
2.18.24 - Winter Klezmer Carnival, Parlor Room, Northampton, MA
9.23.23 - Doozy Do Parade, Northampton, MA
9.17.23 - Arcadia Folk Festival, Easthampton, MA
8.3.23 - Music in the Park, Peskeompskut Park, Turners Falls, MA (w/ Caroline Davis and Ramon & Jessica)
1.18.23 - Montague Common Hall, Montague, MA (w/ Orkestar Banitsa)
For booking or to join our mailing list, contact: booking@klezmer.com