The London Klezmer Quartet's combination of musicality, technical prowess and joie de vie is proving popular with audiences, the press and their peers alike.
The press says:
"It may seem odd to find the shtetl being rebuilt inside the M25, but there's no lack of authenticity in the exuberant yet cultured playing of the violinist Ilana Cravitz, the accordionist Carol Isaacs, the clarinettist Susi Evans and the double-bassist Indra Buraczewska... While there's no shortage of dynamism here, the musicians dig deeper, too, bringing classical poise to the more introspective pieces. The tradition is safe in the hands of the next generation." Sunday Times, 3 Feb 2013
“A fantastic sound with inventive arrangements, virtuosity, exciting original tunes and soulful playing.” Songlines Magazine
"The real deal, to these ears.” Doug Spencer, The Weekend Planet, ABC Radio National, Australia
“The London Klezmer Quartet proved to be one of the most popular instrumental groups at the [National Folk] festival… Their infectious repertoire of much-loved, toe-tapping klezmer tunes from Eastern Europe wowed the crowds… all played with passion and flair.” Australian Jewish News
"Dynamic and authentic." Time Out, London
Promoters and venues say:
"You did a brilliant job. The atmosphere was great and everyone had a wonderful time." Carole Lateman, Mayor of London's Thames Festival
"Thank you once more for the great performance. The audience left very lovely messages, describing the evening as 'perfect', 'great quartet' and 'energy'! I am very pleased and I hope you enjoyed the experience too." Piera Orizzonte, 'Friday Lates' Co-ordinator, Victoria & Albert Museum, London
"It was wonderful to have you here. Such a joy to see whole generations of families dancing together to your gorgeous music!" Caitlin Williams, Families & Youth Projects Coordinator, Arts Centre Melbourne
"The audience absolutely loved it." Ikon Arts
"LKQ are brilliant ... one of the world music bands I admire in London." Wallee McDonnell, World Music Series Co-ordinator, St Ethelburga's, London
Festival organisers say:
“We were delighted to have LKQ perform at Shir Madness – such a talented and charming bunch of women! Many attendees commented that the LKQ performance was one of the highlights of the entire festival.” Gary Holzman, Director, Shir Madness Sydney Jewish Music Festival 2012
"What amazing musicianship and knowledge about an authentic klezmer tradition! They are passionate and enthusiastic in their stage presence of the real deal. A must for any festival or event with the aim of presenting entertaining traditional music." David De Santi, Artistic Director Illawarra Folk Festival & Perisher Snowy Mountains of Music, former Editor of Trad&Now magazine
Musicians say:
"The LKQ is made up of four of Europe's most talented klezmer musicians. They are great performers and teachers and bring a wealth of knowledge, experience and excitement to their performances." Frank London, The Klezmatics
"The London Klezmer Quartet is the much-anticipated collaboration of some of the finest klezmer talent in the UK. They are educators, innovators and emerging leaders in the international klezmer scene. It's a pleasure to hear such gorgeous traditional playing full of "groove" and so many creative and joyful twists!" Deborah Strauss, klezmer violinist, The Strauss/Warschauer Duo
“The London Klezmer Quartet brims with musicality and elicits every emotion possible in my soul... I want to laugh, I want to cry, but most importantly I want to dance!”Amy Ray, Indigo Girls
See also: Concert reviews and CD reviews
"The LKQ is made up of four of Europe's most talented klezmer musicians. They are great performers and teachers and bring a wealth of knowledge, experience and excitement to their performances."
Frank London, The Klezmatics