Beyond the Borders Series at the Croatian American Cultural Center
presents: Herdeljezi Balkan Romani Afternoon

$10 door/$5 Advance, Children Free!
Reservations and info: croatianamericanweb.org 510.649.0941

Featuring:

Meraklii
Rumen “Sali” Shopov and his Meraklii Balkan Ensemble pick you up and spin you around with their energetic Balkan and Romani dance tunes. Rumen is an internationally acclaimed multi-instrumentalist, arranger, and band leader who has trained and inspired many Bay Area musicians and groups. Ensemble Meraklii grew out of his Balkan and Romani Ensemble Workshop at the California Jazz Conservatory.

Édessa
Édessa captures the passion and vitality that is at the heart of Balkan music. This often-rambunctious band plays the intricate time signatures and highly ornamented modal music that is characteristic of the Balkans with authority and joy. An understanding of the unique connection between this music and it’s expression in Balkan dance informs the ensemble’s performances and derives from decades-long involvement as both musicians and dancers. Using both traditional and modern instruments, they play a variety of styles featuring long sets that interweave melodies and improvisation with a big Balkan beat.

Edessa will be performing with a special guest, Rumen "Sali" Shopov (vocals, percussion)