Make them Tanz! In this class we will hone in on groove and accompaniment ideas - to be played on all instruments! We will review the basic dance types, learn middle voice lines, and explore rhythmic variations. We will start with a simple klezmer tune or two and learn how to enhance it through creative and groovy accompaniment. Open to all levels and instruments. Led by Mattias Kauffman (accordion) and Raffi Boden (cello).

All Ages/Sliding Scale $10-$25

Mattias Kaufmann is an accordionist based in Boston, MA. Mattias has toured internationally with the Klezmer ensembles Mamaliga and Farnakht and served as teaching faculty at festivals of Klezmer music such as Yiddish New York and KlezMaineia. As a recent graduate of the Contemporary Musical Arts Program at New England Conservatory, Mattias is on a path of innovation and discovery with the accordion, combining diverse influences from around the world.

Raffi Boden is a NY based cellist, composer and educator known for his groovy bass lines and his versatility. With Mamaliga, he has performed internationally and been a guest artist at Yiddish New York, Yiddish Summer Weimar and KlezKanada. Raffi was recently in the Juilliard production of “Indecent”, for which he worked with composer and music director Lisa Gutkin to compose a cello part for the band. In classical contexts, he has performed internationally in Europe and South America, locally in Carnegie Hall, and with members of the NY Philharmonic. Raffi holds degrees from Juilliard and Oberlin. Raffi is also a member of chamber-jazz ensemble Simone Baron & Arco Belo. These days, Raffi is freelancing in NY, teaching, and working on singing in Yiddish!