klezmor

A klezmor is a musician who performs klezmer, the traditional music of Ashkenazi Jews from Central and Eastern Europe. The term is used in Yiddish to denote a klezmer performer, and can refer to solo players or members of an ensemble. Klezmer music is known for expressive melodies, intricate ornamentation, and danceable rhythms.

Historically, klezmorim were itinerant musicians who traveled between towns in the shtetls and border regions, often playing at weddings, celebrations, and other communal events. They typically formed small ensembles featuring instruments such as the violin, clarinet, and sometimes the tsimbl (hammered dulcimer), accordion, guitar, and bass. The leader of the group was often a violinist or clarinetist, who guided the performance and improvisation.

The repertoire of klezmorim includes a variety of dance tunes and contemplative pieces. Common dance styles include freylekh, bulgar, and hora, while the doina provides a more freely explored, modal mood. Ornamentation and expressive bending of pitches are characteristic, with regional influences from Polish, Lithuanian, Romanian, and other Eastern European Jewish communities contributing distinct flavors.

In the 20th century, many klezmorim emigrated to North America and other regions, where klezmer music evolved through new ensembles and cross-genre collaborations. A revival beginning in the late 20th century helped renew interest in traditional repertoire and performance practices. Today, klezmorim continue to perform at weddings and concerts, often blending historical styles with jazz, folk, and world music influences.