KlezMitten: Like a Glove!

Klezmer Music has been a constant thread woven through the fabric of my life. The first annual KlezMitten festival feels like the culmination of years of passion, dedication and community. I’m beyond excited to bring four incredible groups together — from Detroit, Lansing and Ann Arbor — for what promises to be an unforgettable celebration of Klezmer music in Michigan.

My journey with Klezmer began in the late 90s, thanks to Cantor Steven Dubov Z"L at Temple Beth El. He introduced me to the Kidz Klez Band of Michigan, a group that would shape not just my musical path but also my personal identity.

As a middle schooler, I was immediately drawn to the lively, soulful melodies — and the sense of history and tradition that Klezmer music embodies. Playing in the Kidz Klez Band throughout middle and high school provided me with a sense of belonging and a deep connection to my Jewish roots. The band wasn't just about learning music; it was about understanding the stories and emotions behind each note, something that Cantor Dubov emphasized throughout my time in the band.

After I had graduated college with a degree in Instrumental Music Education, I had the privilege of coming full circle and directing the ensemble for a number of years. Leading the Kidz Klez Band was a profoundly rewarding experience. It was an opportunity to pass on the love of Klezmer music to a new generation — just as it had been passed down to me. Watching young musicians discover the joy in those familiar scales and rhythms was both humbling and exhilarating. It also reinforced the importance of community and tradition in music, something that continues to inspire me today.

The KlezMitten festival represents a new chapter in this ongoing journey. It’s not just a festival; it’s a coming together of different threads from my life. Bringing together Klezundheit, the Kidz Klez Band, and other incredible groups like Schmaltz from Ann Arbor feels like a natural progression of everything that’s come before. I’m particularly thrilled to have Schmaltz on the lineup, as their saxophonist, Ryan Schildcrout, is a former student of mine. Ryan played in the Kidz Klez Band when he was in high school and seeing him continue to grow as a musician and now perform at this festival is truly special. Also Schmaltz is ridiculously good … come see for yourself!

KlezMitten is more than just a concert — it’s a celebration of the vibrant Yiddush and Klezmer scene in Michigan, a testament to the power of music to build community, and a tribute to the traditions that have been passed down through generations. As we prepare for this first annual festival, I’m filled with gratitude for the journey that has brought me here. I’m reminded of Cantor Dubov, whose passion for Klezmer music set me on this path, and of the countless musicians and mentors who have inspired me along the way.

I hope that KlezMitten will not only entertain but also inspire a new generation of Klezmer enthusiasts. There’s something magical about seeing a community come together through music, and I’m eager to share that magic with everyone who attends. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Klezmer or experiencing it for the first time, I believe this festival will be a powerful reminder of the joy and connection that music can bring.