Wednesday|Dec 2, 2026|12:30 pm
Baklava Express
Baklava Express is a New York City based cross-cultural fusion project, led by award-winning composer and master oud player, Josh Kaye. The band performs original music, influenced by various traditions, from Ashkenazi and Mizrahi folk music, to the broader musical traditions of the Mediterranean and Middle East.
The eclectic influences and vast differences in the musical backgrounds of its members have created a group whose style is distinct and genre-defiant.
The band has been featured at several festivals including the Brooklyn International Music Festival, the Greek Jewish Festival, the Nyack Jazz Festival, and its music can be heard on the soundtrack of the short, animated film Ariel by Conor Mcfinn.
Baklava Express’ debut album, Dávka was released in 2023, and their newest album, Sababa, was released last April.
“Based in New York City, Baklava Express is contemporary world music at its finest.”
Joe Ross, Roots Music Report, April 9, 2026
Featuring
Josh Kaye -oud
Daisy Castro - violin
Lefteris Bournias - clarinet
Jeremy Smith - percussion
Almog Sarvit - bass
Wednesday|Oct 28, 2026|12:30 pm
Invoke
Invoke is an award-winning quartet that blends classical chamber music with American roots traditions. Bluegrass, Appalachian fiddle tunes, jazz, and minimalism all find a home in their music.
Driven by a love of storytelling, the four multi-instrumentalists weave these styles into a contemporary repertoire, including original works composed by and for the group.
Invoke has shared the stage with acclaimed chamber ensembles including the Westerlies, the Miró and Ensō Quartets, and the U.S. Army Field Band. They’ve also collaborated across genres with folk legend Judy Collins, Grammy-winning singer and poet Tarriona “Tank” Ball, composer-performer Clarice Assad, chamber rock group San Fermin, indie group Never Shout Never, and DC beatboxer, rapper, and spoons virtuoso Christylez Bacon.
The group is committed to championing diverse American voices by commissioning and performing new music.
Featuring
Nick Montopoli - violin, banjo, vocals
Zach Matteson - violin, vocals
Karl Mitze - viola, mandolin, vocals
Geoff Manyin - cello, vocals
