Date: Thursday, April 23, 2026
Time: 7:30 PM
Location: Florence Harkness Memorial Chapel
Format: In-Person + Virtual
Admission: Free | Open to the Public
Watch: Livestream in Harkness Chapel
Performed by the Klezmer Music Ensemble, this concert also reflects the group's dedication to exploring and sharing traditional East European Jewish instrumental folk music. Known for its distinctive style, rich repertoire, and close-knit chamber music collaboration, the ensemble brings this vibrant genre to live through both performance and study.
In addition to preparing for one concert each semester, ensemble members engage with to key aspects of Jewish culture and history, deepening their understanding of the music and its cultural context.
About The Program
Contemporary Klezmer Compositions: Original Jewish Instrumental and Vocal Hymns
Composed by Steven Greenman
This program showcases original Jewish and klezmer compositions by violinist Steven Greenman, written between 1997 and 2025. Rooted in a deep understanding of traditional klezmer styles, forms, and genres, these works reflect both the expressive range and cultural richness of the tradition.
Audiences will hear echoes of the khasene—the vibrant, emotional atmosphere of a traditional East European Jewish wedding—as well as the lively spirit of the shtetl, where music animated daily life. From moments of joyful exuberance to passages of deep reflection, the program evokes the sounds and stories of a rich artistic past.
At the same time, these compositions highlight the ongoing vitality of klezmer and Yiddish music today. As contemporary artists continue to create within this tradition, they carry forward the legacy of the old masters, ensuring that the Ashkenazic musical heritage endures and evolves across generations.
Performed by:
- Steven Greenman , director (CWRU)
- Adam Brann, cello (CIM)
- Kennedy Brehm, clarinet (CWRU)
- Anton Dmitrik, clarinet (CIM)
- Josh Felser, viola (CIM)
- Matthew Haimowitz, marimba/vocals (CWRU)
- Sebastian Kelzenberg, oboe (CIM)
- Jiani Liang, piano (CIM)
- Alicia Mathew, vocals (CWRU)
- Benjamin Poulin, cello/banjo (CWRU)
- Nikolas Scheiber-Loeis, violin (CIM)
CWRU Music 2025–26 Concert Season
The Case Western Reserve University Department of Music presents a dynamic season of concerts, recitals, and special events featuring students, faculty, and guest artists. From classical masterworks to contemporary works, the series highlights the creativity and excellence of CWRU’s vibrant music community. All events are open to the public.
During the 2025–26 season, CWRU celebrates its Bicentennial—200 years of academic excellence, innovation, and impact—honoring the generations who have shaped the performing arts at CWRU while looking ahead to the future.
Venue Information
Florence Harkness Memorial Chapel (est. 1902) offers a warm, intimate, and acoustically resonant setting on the Mather Quad. This neo-Gothic landmark commemorates the brief life of Florence Harkness Severance and reflects Cleveland’s rich cultural and philanthropic history. Designed by architect Charles F. Schweinfurth, the chapel is renowned for its soaring arches, exquisite woodwork, and luminous Tiffany stained-glass windows.
Health + Safety
The health and well-being of our community is important to us as we gather for campus events. University Health and Counseling Services provides up-to-date guidance and resources to help support a safe campus experience. For life-threatening emergencies, please call CWRU Public Safety immediately at 216.368.3333.