Maxwell Street Klezmer Quintet

In 1983, vocalist and guitarist Lori Lippitz, put out the word to local musicians that she wanted the Midwest to join the Klezmer Revival by starting a klezmer band. The name "Maxwell Street" tips its fedora to Chicago’s Sunday morning Maxwell Street Market, established in the late 1800’s by newly-arrived Jewish immigrants from Eastern Europe.  For 40 years, Maxwell Street Klezmer Band has been spreading its special take on traditional klezmer to the Chicagoland area and the world, with a schmear of Jewish folk music, a dollop of jazz, and bissel brassy Broadway. With Alex Koffman, its charismatic violinist, at the helm, the band has released six albums and contributed its own special flavor to the Klezmer Revival. The Quintet will feature Vocals, Clarinet, Violin, Keyboard and Bass.

The event is free; donations are welcome. This is an in person event (not accessible remotely) and registration is required.

Merging traditional klezmer dance music with classical finesse and a healthy dose of quirky humor, the Maxwell Street Klezmer Quintet throws a party. The band has performed at Carnegie Hall, with Lyric Opera of Chicago, and throughout the US, United Kingdom and Europe. Locally, they are known for their steadfast commitment to the Jewish community and performing at simchas, sometimes for multiple generations of the same family. Led by master violinist Alex Koffman, Maxwell Street is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year.