Advanced Introduction to Klezmer & Yiddish Music 
for Music Conservatory Students  & Professional Instrumentalists 
(by audition only)

August 4 - 9, 2025
10 a.m. - 1 p.m. & 3 - 6 p.m. | music conservatory students & professional instrumentalists

with Christian Dawid & Mark Kovnatskiy

For centuries, Jewish violinists and other instrumentalists were famous throughout Europe for their virtuosity and expressivity. Known as klezmorim, they formed family dynasties that lasted for generations. When Russian conservatories first opened their doors to Jews in the late 19th century, many of the new students came from precisely these klezmer families before going on to become some of the great classical virtuosi of the 20th century. 

For the first time at Yiddish Summer Weimar, we are offering an introduction to klezmer music specifically for highly trained instrumentalists. Through playing and learning music, you will learn about klezmer genres, typical modes and scales, harmonic and rhythmic practices, the roles of different instruments in ensembles, musical communication, and the social performance practice of klezmer music. The workshop leaders, Christian Dawid (clarinet) and Mark Kovnatskiy (violin), are among the most highly regarded klezmorim in the world today. 

We will work both with written music and by ear. All instruments welcome.

 

Please note!
This workshop requires an audition to register. Please send these materials to Mark Kovnatskiy at :

• A recording, or link to a recording, of two pieces. These should demonstrate
  i) your primary musical field and
  ii) any kind of traditional music you play, if that’s not your primary field.

• A one-paragraph biography.

Workshop fee: 
465 € Standard / 315 € Reduced / 645 € Sponsor / 165 € under 18