Kol Simcha

Europe's N°1 Klezmerband, formed in 1986 as "Kol Simcha". They later use the band name in one word as "Kolsimcha" (first release with this version in 2007). Also they use the alias "The World Quintet". The quintett pairs a front line of clarinet and flute with a rhythm section of acoustic bass, drums and piano to create a mix of jazz improvisations, symphonic sounds and exotic Mediterranean melodies alternating with ballads and Eastern European rhythms. Their music has been described as everything from "a new world music" (The Independent) to "anatomically impossible" (Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung). As well as appearing at most of the major European venues and festivals, Kolsimcha has provided the music for international theatre, dance and movie productions. They have played on the soundtrack for Caroline Link's Oscar-nominated drama “Beyond Silence”, and have composed the soundtrack for Academy Award winner Xavier Koller's film “Gripsholm”. They also played on several ballets and theatre productions, composed by pianist Olivier Truan, such as “Ballettabend II” by Marc Ribeaud, "Mayday" by Joachim Schlömer, and “Ghetto” by Josua Sobol. In addition to performing as a 5-piece band, they also have an original repertoire for quintet and symphony orchestra, “Symphonic World”, which crosses musical boundaries.