The Alexandria Kleztet

Bio:

Exciting and innovative, The Alexandria Kleztet has been combining traditional Eastern European/Jewish music with diverse influences for more than a decade. New arrangements of traditional melodies and original songs by members of the band draw upon jazz, classical, world beat, rock and other musical genres to create a unique and entertaining sound.

The band is based in the Washington/Baltimore area and has performed throughout the Mid-Atlantic region, including TEN annual appearances at the Kennedy Center and regular concerts at the Peabody Institute. They began touring internationally in 2007 with an appearance at the Semanas Musicales festival in Chile.

Led by woodwind player Seth Kibel, the band includes violinist Helen Hausmann, bassist Scott Harlan and percussionist Tim Jarvis.

The Alexandria Kleztet recently released it fourth album, "Peace, Love and Coffee." In addition to six original compositions, the recording features fresh arrangements of traditional melodies and creative re-workings of songs by Kurt Weill and John Williams.

The Kleztet has won FIFTEEN Washington Area Music Awards (Wammies) including: World Music Duo or Group, World Music Instrumentalist, Jazz Instrumentalist, World Music Recording.

"The Alexandria Kleztet may not be international stars yet, but under the dynamic leadership of Mr. Kibel they will definitely get there." -- Sing Out (Summer 2006)









View the complete The Alexandria Kleztet tour schedule

Member Since:

January 24, 2006

Members:

Seth Kibel -- clarinet, saxophones, flute Helen Hausmann -- violin, mandolin Scott Harlan -- assorted basses Tim Jarvis -- drums, percussion

Influences:

Dave Tarras, Naftule Brandwein, The Klezmatics, Bill Frisell, John Zorn, Benny Goodman, Artie Shaw, Bela Fleck

Sounds Like:

The Klezmatics, Brave Old World, David Krakauer, Andy Statman, Klezmer Conservatory Band

Record Label:

Azalea City Recordings