Since forming in 2017, Shpilkis transforms potential into kinetic energy on dance floors at simkhas, festivals, clubs, holiday events, and block parties. Shpilkis creates a soundscape that is chaotic, loose, and raucous, while also being organized and thoughtful. Every instrument intertwines around the melody, pushing and pulling at the rhythm, and kicking tukheses out of their seats to dance! A fixture in the Yiddish music scene of the Pacific Northwest, Shpilkis brings the party to the local klezmer scene and Yiddishkayt to the party music scene alike.
Testimonials
“Shpilkis is a super fun band playing solid and rocking klezmer music with a brassy edge. I have worked with the band as a guest soloist and as an arranger and they bring a great balance of exuberance, seriousness, and fun to all they do. Filled with wonderful people playing the good music, the Shpilkis Brass Band is the joyful, raucous party band you need to make any concert, party, or coming of age ceremony truly pop.”
Dan Blacksberg — Klezmer Trombone Master
“Shpilkis always brings an energetic enthusiasm to their performances that is mirrored by their large and engaged fanbase.”
Camilo Estrada, Arts and Culture Manager, Black and Tan Hall
“Shpilkis deliver a klezmer performance that is joyous and heartrending, in the best way. They combine a profound respect for tradition with an edgy modernism, to deeply satisfying effect. We've hired them for several events and they are great to work with-- friendly, fun, low maintenance and professional. We'll be doing it again!”
Adrienne F.
“My elementary school hosted a performance by Shpilkis last year as part of our visiting musician series. They were wonderful! Shpilkis were masterful in all aspects of their time here. All of the members talked about their instruments, how they work together as a band, gave us insights about the structure and history of klezmer music, and played beautiful, spirited music. At the end of their time here, we had a giant klezmer dance party - dancing in circles, kicking up our heels, bobbing our heads, and whooping! Each band member was a delight and our whole community was buzzing about their show. In short, Shpilkis is a klezmer party hosted by lovely people. Their music feels both ancient and modern and reminds you of the beauty, joy, and universality of music. What a great band.”
Barry Wright, Head of School
The Perkins School, Seattle, WA
“Went to a Skpilkis show a few months ago and I’m not sure what happened but it was like winding up in a time machine of our people’s collective unconscious. The music was the closest thing I’ve heard to my father’s Yiddish. I had tears running down my face at the same time that every cell in my body needed to get up and dance. What a beautiful, zesty, life-ful, time-bendy burst of delight that is (re)connecting me to my past, present, and future. I’ve sought them out every chance I can get since.”
Rachel L.