Temple Beth El of Oneonta will present in concert the nationally recognized klezmer ensemble Big Galut(e) as part of the synagogue’s 90th anniversary celebration. Capping off a weekend of events, the ensemble will perform on Sunday, May 3, at 3 pm, in the sanctuary following opening remarks by Mayor Dan Butterman. Tickets are $20 for adults, $5 for students and free admission for children under 12. Temple Beth El, at 83 Chestnut St., Oneonta, is handicapped accessible.
“Klezmer refers to the joyous and soulful folk music of the Eastern European Jewish communities dating from the Middle Ages,” noted members of the Temple Beth El 90th Anniversary Concert Committee. “Having all but disappeared, it has been in a spirited revival for decades with an appeal that crosses ethnic and geographic boundaries. Since its inception in 2010, Big Galut(e) has blended history, passion, virtuosity and humor in their performances.”
Big Galut(e) has been featured on NPR’s “Performance Today” and WNYC’s “New Sounds,” has appeared on concert stages throughout the country, including at Stamford and Cornell universities, and was a prize winner at an international music competition. Locally, Big Galut(e) has performed for the Oneonta Concert Association, appeared as soloists with the Catskill Symphony and was featured twice on the Glimmerglass Festival Pavillion series. This will be Big Galut(e)’s first appearance in the area since before the Covid shutdown. 
Founding member Robin Seletsky is a second-generation klezmer musician who was recognized by The New York Times for her “stylish” and “jazzy” clarinet playing. “Big Galut(e)’s instrumentation of clarinet, violin, accordion, bass and guitar is typical of traditional klezmer bands, but their modest reinvention of Old World sound and style, while staying true to the spirit of the music, is unique,” said concert organizers. “Their programs typically include exuberant dance melodies, reflective improvisations and joyous sing-alongs.”
Temple Beth El was founded in 1936. Its first home was over the Oneonta Theater on Chestnut Street. It has been in its present location since 1956 and has “an acoustically warm sanctuary that is perfect for musical performances,” concert organizers noted. “This special family-friendly event in recognition of the temple’s 90th anniversary is a way to honor the past while celebrating the present and future.”
For more information, call 607-222-5687.