Schmaltz & Pepper
Schmaltz & Pepper features the extraordinary talents of Eric Abramovitz, principal clarinetist of the Toronto Symphony and the Grammy-nominated multi-instrumentalist and arranger Drew Jurecka. This groundbreaking ensemble is rounded out with virtuosic violinist/vocalist/composer Rebekah Wolkstein (founder/leader of the acclaimed Payadora Ensemble), JUNO-nominated bassist Michael Herring and JUNO award-winning pianist, Jeremy Ledbetter (Canefire). These artists are redefining the traditional boundaries of Yiddish music, blending classical mastery with innovative compositions and soulful arrangements.
Playing original and highly inventive compositions klezmer inspired by jazz, Roma, classical, and European folk music, they also perform original arrangements of klezmer and Yiddish music, displaying their joyous and virtuosic genre-bending fusion of many musical styles.
This powerhouse group sold out their Toronto Summer Music debut weeks in advance with one reviewer calling the performance “spectacular”, “inventive, adventurous and experimental”,” (Ludwig Van, July 2024) while John Gilks of Opera Ramblings declared “They are all first rate musicians; Abramowitz and Wolkstein are especially stunning.”
“They are a brilliant band.” (Opera Ramblings)