Performing Arts Society of Redding presents “Sheine Nechome” Klezmer Music Ensemble

Introduction to Sheine Nechome

Sheine Nechome, [pronounced “Shayna Neshama”] means beautiful soul in Yiddish. They are the far north state’s only group performing Klezmer music, which is traditional music from the old Jewish settlements of the late 1800’s in eastern and central Europe, Yiddish theater favorites from the early 1900’s, Ashkenazi classics, and contemporary pieces in the Klezmer style.

Much of Klezmer being dance-oriented, was originally played at weddings and other celebrations. With the addition of lyrical theater pieces, you can see that the music gives cultural insight into Ashkenazi Jewish community and family life in those days, and embodies both humor and heart. As many early Klezmer players were traveling minstrels, you may hear musical influences from neighboring geographical areas beyond eastern and central Europe.

Sheine Nechome was founded by Helena Gelfor in 2023 to bring to the North State a genre of music that she grew up with and performed extensively before moving to Redding in 2020.

Meet Sheine Nechome
Helena Gelfor – musical director, violin, vocals
Gail Pittman-Biehle – vocals
Lisa McCain-Cole – bass
Marilyn Traugott – guitar, vocals
George De Filippo – flute
Joy Stander, guest artist – clarinet