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2010-07-05

Shalom at Szeroka - a concert review

 

Ilustracja

Benzion Miller – favorite of the audience

The concert Shalom at Szeroka Street, which was the main event of the 20th Jewish Cultural Festival in Krakow, attracted a great number of local people as well as tourists. On the nights of the 3rd and 4th of July, the audience enjoyed accomplished artists from all around the world. At the beginning, bands from Central Europe, which is the birth place of Klezmer music, performed. The gypsy band from Hungary – Parno Graszt and Ukrainian group – Konsonans Retro entertained. Afterwards the public was stirred by lively Latino rhythms of Septeto Rodriguez Cuban Jewish All-stars. Although this was their premier performance in Krakow, the Cubans were highly acclaimed. People responded by dancing, not only at Szeroka Street, but also in the windows of nearby buildings.

After the performance, the Chief Rabbi of Poland, Michael Schudrich and the Chief Rabbi of Galicia, Edgar Gluck prayed Sabbath prayers. Then, the long-awaited Benzion Miller appeared. This venerated cantor from New York enchanted the audience, as they joined in singing with him. Likewise, people clapped their hands and danced traditional Jewish dances. At around 23.00, ‘Other Europeans’ band took the stage and created an amazing atmosphere which enhanced the festivities. The stunning mix of gypsy and Klezmer music resounded. The audience enjoyed it so much that, after the performance, the band was asked to play an encore. However, there was a shortage of time, and Ilana Eliya was ready to sing. Several days earlier the public had gone into raptures over her magnificent concert in Temple Synagogue. This night they raved as well. Ilana sang two romantic ballades and two other very lively songs. She also danced a traditional Kurdish dance with tissues which was loudly applauded.

To conclude, all musicians who took part in the Festival played together. Instruments from all over the world resounded harmoniously. On this special occasion, we realised that the beauty of music is not limited by state borders or national differences, but it derives from the achievements of many cultures.

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