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Bio
Hailing from Western Massachusetts, Myrtle Street Klezmer is an ecstatic exploration into the past, present, and future of Klezmer music. 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've been connecting with audiences through performances, workshops, and presentations across New England.
Bandleader Jason Ditzian (clarinet) has led the iconic San Francisco-based klezmer ensemble, Kugelplex for over 20 years, collaborating with Joan Baez, Frank London, the San Francisco and Oakland Symphonies, and many others. After moving to New England, he recruited local musical luminaries to create his new project.
Core members include Jason Ditzian (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.
In 2025, MSK recorded released their first album on digital download and vinyl, Fun vanen?. This 4-track release features unexpected, contemporary renditions of Yiddish/klezmer classics Tumbalalaika, Kolomyke, and Fun vanen heybt zikh on a libe? alongside an 18-minute interpretation of Masâr, composed by Palestinian oud trio, Le Trio Joubran.
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Select Performances:
Iron Horse, Northampton, MA
Arcadia Folk Festival, Easthampton, MA
Fabric of Life Barnfest, Shelburne Falls, MA
Chocolate Church Art Center, Bath, ME
Mariposa Museum, Peterborough, NH
Weathervane World Music Festival, Turners Falls, MA
Nova Arts, Keene, NH
Doozy Do Parade, Northampton, MA
For info, booking or to join our mailing list, contact:
myrtlestreetklezmer@gmail.com
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