Klezmer Bands in Manchester
Klezmorim of Manchester
The Klezmorim of Manchester occasionally gather for a gig series called 'Vessels of Song: Journey's Through The Worlds of Klezmer', which was a format devised and development by Richard Fay and Daniel Mawson, with original concept by Mike Beaumont. We explore klezmer's travels across borders and genres throughout its history, looking at its musical and cultural interactions with the Old World and the New World, and with Swing, Classical, Irish and Balkan music. We have performed in conjunction with The Lowry Theatre and a sold out show with Manchester Liberal Jewish Community.
Michael Kahan Kapelye
Michael Kahan Kapelye (MKK) was founded in 2011 by Ros Hawley and Richard Fay as the ongoing klezmer ensemble at the University of Manchester. The ensemble lineup changes each year after assessments. MKK is named in memory of Michael Kahan, a Manchester-based klezmer musician who was tragically killed a few years ago in a random street attack. Now run by Richard Fay and Daniel Mawson, they aim to continue his legacy through teaching, supporting, and developing the next generation of klezmorim.
Hard Times Kapelye
Hard Times Kapelye (HTK) are a Manchester-based 6-piece Klezmer group playing a mixture of traditional Klezmer tunes and original numbers inspired by the music of the Balkans. The band's name refers to the affinity for slightly unusual time signatures. HTK was assembled by Richard Fay to explore his interest in Balkan and eastern European music (particularly the Klezmer tradition). Much of their music is made up of traditional Klezmer tunes, interpreted in the band's unique, lively style.