Klezmer Music, "Jewish soul music," has become popular the world over. With roots in Eastern European folk song, and incorporating elements from many locales, klezmer music speaks to people from many different ethnic backgrounds.

KLEZMER TUNES with a classical touch by Daniel Galay presents a whole new concept in klezmer music. These 18 original klezmer tunes were composed for clarinet or violin solo (both solo parts are provided) and piano. The piano part is written so that any classical pianist will feel at home playing this music. But other options are available. The piano may be replaced with electronic keyboard or accordion, and other instruments may be added to the ensemble. The solo parts are printed with chord symbols for the sake of those players who prefer an entirely free approach. And performers are encouraged to improvise, ornament, and import other styles such as jazz, rock, and tango.

The KLEZMER TUNES are performed regularly by many klezmer artists, and classical musicians have also incorporated them into their recital programs. Most recently, they were performed by the Aufwind Ensemble (Berlin) at the Yiddish Summit 2000 held in Strasbourg, France sponsored by European Council and the city of Strasbourg in November 2000.

"This is middle east meets west - a kind of Jewish crossover music. Intended for clarinet or violin and piano (separate parts are supplied for each), these 18 Klezmer tunes would suite almost any melody instrument just as well. There is a strong encouragement to be creative in performance, right from the start. . . . "

Sheet Music (UK), Spring 2000

Grade: 4 (there is some variation in level of difficulty among the 18 selections). $19.95.

The KLEZMER TUNES are also available in an edition for solo clarinet/violin and string orchestra. The string parts (which can also be performed by string quartet or quintet) may be played by a high school orchestra. $74.95.

Selected works in the klezmer spirit by Joachim Stutschewsky, famous composer and folklorist:

FREILACHS for cello and piano (12306). Grade 5, $5.95.
KLEZMER'S WEDDING MUSIC for violin, cello, and piano (12051). Grade 5, $12.95.
MEMORIES for clarinet solo (13314). Grade 3-4, $3.95.