Baltimore’s very own Seth Kibel, leader of The Alexandria Kleztet, introduces students to klezmer music with a historical background and an intro to basic klezmer performance practice and music theory. Participants will learn both traditional melodies as well as some basic improvisational skills drawing upon the klezmer tradition. This workshop is suitable for all instruments and is beginner-friendly. Although some sheet music will be used, musical literacy is not required to participate in this workshop. Handouts will be provided via email to registered participants.

Seth Kibel is one of the Mid-Atlantic’s premier woodwind specialists, working with some of the best bands in klezmer, jazz, swing, and more. Wowing audiences on clarinet, saxophone, and flute, Seth has made a name for himself in the Washington/Baltimore region, and beyond. He is the featured performer with The Kleztet, Bay Jazz Project, Music Pilgrim Trio, The Natty Beaux, and more. Winner of 28 Washington Area Music Awards (Wammies), including “Best World Music Instrumentalist” (2003-11) and “Best Jazz Instrumentalist” (2005, 2007-8, 2011-14). His most recent recording, “When You’re Smiling,” was released in 2018 on the Azalea City Recordings record label. His song “New Waltz” was the Grand Prize winner of 2016 Mid-Atlantic Song Contest (MASC), sponsored by the Songwriters’ Association of Washington (SAW). When he’s not performing, Seth frequently lectures on a variety of topics in music history for numerous institutions, including the Osher Lifelong Learning programs at Johns Hopkins and Towson Universities. www.sethkibel.com