Klezmer

Klezmer (כלזמיר, from Hebrew k'li zemer כלי זמר, "instrument of song") is a musical tradition which parallels Hasidic and Ashkenazic Judaism. Around the 15th century, a tradition of secular (non-liturgical) Jewish music was developed by musicians called klezmorim. They drew on devotional traditions extending back into Biblical times, and their musical legacy of klezmer continues to evolve today. The repertoire is largely dance songs for weddings and other celebrations.

Song structure

Most klezmer songs are in several sections, each in a different key. Frequently sections alternate between major and minor keys. Instrumental songs often follow the type of chord progressions found in "oriental" music such as Greek music, whereas vocal Yiddish songs are often much simpler, and follow a style and chord progressions similar to Russian folk song.

Related Topics:
Key - Major - Minor - Greek - Yiddish - Russian

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A common ending for songs is an upwards chromatic run or glissando, followed by a slow staccato 8-5-1.

Related Topics:
Chromatic - Glissando - Staccato

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