A Klezmer Wedding

A Klezmer Wedding by Mike Curtis is a set of four dances, newly-composed but based on traditional models. “The Doina” is an expressive chant for three successive soloists; it twists and turns with the wailing lament of a shepherd’s pipe. Next follows the “Hora,” a slow Rumanian dance in three with a mood that reflects the wedding’s solemn vows. “A Chusidl,” with a moderate speed and bouncy rhythms, gets the party to the dance floor. The concluding “Freylach” (happy, but still in a minor key) takes the bride, groom, and guests to the edge of frenzy.