Daniel Kahn: Yiddish Songs & Klezmer in Bludenz – February 3rd 2026
A unique musical experience is planned for Bludenz, Austria, on Tuesday, February 3rd, as Daniel Kahn and his trio prepare to perform at the Remise Bludenz. The event, a collaboration between the Jewish Museum Hohenems and the city of Bludenz, promises an immersive journey into the world of Yiddish song, Klezmer music, and contemporary sounds.
A Transnational Musical Call
The “UMRU (unrest)” Project
The performance centres around “UMRU (unrest),” described as a musical call shaped by a transnational Yiddish culture. This project transcends artificial boundaries, nationalism, and violence, blending traditional and contemporary songs with original compositions and reinterpretations. Daniel Kahn notably translates songs by artists like Tom Waits, Leonard Cohen, and Stephen Foster into Yiddish, weaving them into existing pieces and his own ballads.
The concert aims to transform these songs into reflections of the present day, addressing themes of war, displacement, oppression, and the ongoing struggle for freedom. The musical landscape will range from energetic Klezmer and jazz-infused sounds to elements of grotesque cabaret and intimate campfire music.
Local Enthusiasm
Cenk Dogan, the Culture Stadtrat (City Councilor) of Bludenz, expressed his enthusiasm for the event, calling it a “cultural highlight.” He emphasized the opportunity for those interested to discover Klezmer and Yiddish music, and to gain insight into a culture of resistance. He also thanked the Jewish Museum Hohenems for their cooperation in bringing this performance to Bludenz.
The Trio’s Musicality
Daniel Kahn’s vocals are described as fluid, moving effortlessly between styles and genres. He is joined by Jake Shulman-Ment, whose fiddle playing incorporates influences from Eastern European doinas and lively polkas, and Christian Dawid, who contributes melodic lines with clarinet and saxophone, underpinned by dark, pulsating percussion. Together, they create a sound that is both delicate and explosive.
Tickets for the performance can be reserved by contacting [email protected].
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of music will be performed?
The performance will feature a blend of Yiddish song, Klezmer music, and contemporary sounds, including translations of songs by Tom Waits, Leonard Cohen, and Stephen Foster into Yiddish.
Who is involved in organizing this event?
The event is a collaboration between the Jewish Museum Hohenems and the city of Bludenz.
Where and when will the performance take place?
The performance will be held at the Remise Bludenz on Tuesday, February 3rd.
How might this performance contribute to a broader understanding of Yiddish culture and its relevance today?