The Klezmatics are Grammy-winning klezmer superstars who revolutionized Yiddish music. Emerging from New York City’s East Village in 1986, they infused Eastern European Jewish roots with bold contemporary themes like human rights and anti-fundamentalism. Their eclectic sound blends Latin stomps, jazz riffs, and rhythms from the Balkans, Middle East, Africa, and America. For nearly 40 years, The Klezmatics have reimagined klezmer, inspiring generations of musicians. Their achievements include 13 acclaimed recordings, tours across five continents, and collaborations with artists like Itzhak Perlman, Tony Kushner, Chava Alberstein, and Arlo Guthrie. They are the only klezmer band to win a Grammy, earning the 2006 award for the album 'Wonder Wheel: Lyrics by Woody Guthrie'. Their music has enriched theater, dance, film, and television, appearing in A Dybbuk, Pilobolus Dance Theatre’s Davenen, and PBS’s Great Performances. They’ve reached millions through shows like Late Night with David Letterman, NPR’s A Prairie Home Companion, and HBO’s Sex and the City. The Klezmatics have performed in 20+ countries at venues and festivals like Carnegie Hall, WOMAD, Colours of Ostrava, and Yiddish Summer Weimar. Honors include the German Critics Award, New York Jewish Music Award, a GLAMA, and multiple Billboard World Music chart-toppers. Through their vibrant, danceable music, The Klezmatics transcend labels, redefining Jewish culture and leaving a lasting mark on global music.
In 2025, The Klezmatics are excited to be gearing up for their milestone 40th anniversary. The band is planning the reissue of their landmark recordings, augmented with previously unpublished material, and new albums are in the works, including a tribute collection featuring an impressive roster of The Klezmatics’ long-time musical partners and friends. A worldwide anniversary tour is on the horizon, along with unique collectible merchandise and an exhibition of artifacts curated from the band’s four-decade history.
40th Anniversary Tour 2025/2026/2027 in Europe
