The Magnificent Archive of 2005-15
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The London Gypsy Orchestra (LGO) was a vibrant collective of musicians and dancers dedicated to exploring and performing the rich, soul-stirring music of Eastern Europe and the Balkans. This ensemble was a beautiful mix of spirited amateurs and seasoned professionals, all united by a shared passion for this powerful music.
During its golden age from 2005 to 2015, the group was formed and directed by Gundula Stojanova Gruen. She channelled her extensive fieldwork into captivating orchestral arrangements, teaching each piece by ear and leading the group with a fiery passion. Beyond directing the music, she was the artistic visionary, organizer, and facilitator who brought all of the LGO's magic to life.
On stage, the LGO gave a visceral experience. Their high-energy performances did more than get toes tapping; they created strong emotional reactions that touched every single heart. For both the audience and its members, this was a life-changing group, creating a space where cultural celebration and powerful human connection left an unforgettable mark.
Beyond the stage, they were a true community. Their mission was to preserve and share this incredible music through concerts, workshops, and collaborative projects, fostering a deeper understanding of Gypsy and Eastern European culture. They believed in the power of music to connect people, and their journey, from small gigs to sold-out venues, is a testament to the incredible support from every musician, dancer, and audience member who joined along the way.
The Most Meaningful Projects (2005-2015)
Union Chapel Concerts
These annual concerts in a stunning London venue became our signature events: Themed Gala performances, showcasing our most ambitious repertoire and a host of incredible guest artists.
Culture Days at Cecil Sharp House
Our all-day events were a celebration of Gypsy culture, packed with workshops, dancing, and concerts that brought the community together for a full day of music and joy.
Festival Performances
We brought our lively Gypsy sound to some of the UK's biggest festivals, sharing our music with thousands and getting crowds dancing in fields and open-air venues.
Funded Projects
Through our grant-funded initiatives, we engaged with local communities, running workshops and classes to introduce new people to the magic of Gypsy music and dance.
Small Gigs and Jam Sessions
From our earliest days, intimate gigs and lively jam sessions have been the heartbeat of the LGO, providing a space for spontaneous music-making and building our vibrant community.
Union Chapel Concerts
16th November 2013: The Wedding of the Sousaphone
In the breathtaking stillness of the Union Chapel, this night was so much more than a performance; it was a grand, theatrical celebration of our spirit. We watched with joyful hearts as the sousaphone, Yoshka, was dramatically and comically wedded to the orchestra—a playful gesture that perfectly captured our deep, loving connection to the music and to each other. Every laugh and cheer from the audience made the memory even sweeter!
It was a moment of pure, shared joy, where the sacred and the silly blended to create something truly unforgettable. We poured all our warmth and passion into every note, and you could feel the love for the music filling that stunning hall, leaving an emotional mark that we carry to this day.
17th November 2012: Balkanika Britannika
This was our big, annual pilgrimage back to the spectacular Union Chapel, and the air was electric with anticipation. We gathered on that familiar stage, feeling the immense history of the building, and prepared to pour our hearts into a performance that was a testament to our journey. The music, a vibrant blend of Balkan fire and British soul, filled every corner of that sacred space, creating a beautiful and powerful atmosphere.
Standing on that stage, surrounded by our LGO family, was a truly soulful experience. The music flowed through us, and we could feel the audience’s energy rising to meet our own. That night was a celebration of everything we had built together; our hard work, our shared passion, and the bond that kept the orchestra together during its golden years.
6th November 2011: Gypsy Extravaganza
Our grand autumn concert was a pure, unadulterated celebration of Gypsy culture. The moment we stepped onto the stage, the sheer scale of the event hit us. With our Gypsy Dance Group gracing the space in their swirling, vibrant skirts and our musicians full of fiery passion, the air was alive with color and sound. We felt such a profound sense of pride as we premiered our epic composition based on the tune 'Time,' a piece that represented our collective journey.
That night was a true emotional feast. The audience’s enthusiastic and generous response was so deeply felt, proving that this music has a way of speaking directly to the soul. It was a milestone for the orchestra, a beautiful testament to our growth and artistry. We poured every bit of our hearts into that performance, and in return, we received a love and energy that made the night truly unforgettable.
10th November 2007: A Gypsy Dream
This concert was a defining moment in our journey, a night when a dream we had all shared became a breathtaking reality. The moment the first notes sounded in the spectacular setting of the Union Chapel, we knew this was our biggest concert yet, and the atmosphere was simply magical. Joined by the incredible dancer Beverley Joffe, we felt a profound sense of purpose.
That night was a triumphant validation of Gundula’s vision and her tireless hard work. Lit by 200 candles alone, the concert began in the darkness, with musical echoes coming from the balconies around the chapel, leading into a breathtaking sword dance to Gundula’s improvised music. The energy built, culminating in the full force of the 40-strong orchestra. It was a milestone for the LGO’s soul, and a beautiful memory of a night where every note we played felt like a dream coming to life.
Annual Culture Days at Cecil Sharp House
25th March 2012: Music Discovery Day
This day was a true embodiment of our mission to share and celebrate culture. The halls of Cecil Sharp House were filled with a beautiful, buzzing energy as people of all ages tried their hands at music-making. It was a day of pure joy, filled with the sounds of new melodies being born and the sight of people connecting with instruments for the very first time.
For us, it was a deeply rewarding experience. We believe that music is meant to be shared, and this event allowed us to open our world to others in the most direct way possible. Seeing the sparks of joy on people’s faces as they discovered a new rhythm or tune was a powerful reminder of why we do what we do, and that music belongs to everyone. This was more than a concert; it was an act of giving, fostering a love for music that we hope will last a lifetime!
19th March 2011: Gypsy Culture Day
From the moment the doors opened, the entire building was transformed into a vibrant cultural celebration. The day was a magnificent spectacle of sound and color, with workshops humming with activity, delicious smells from the shared meal, and the unforgettable sight of our incredible Gypsy dancers in their swirling, fiery skirts. We were honored to be joined by the superb Romany Diamonds, making the entire day a beautiful exchange of artistry and tradition.
This event was a true highlight for our community. The journey from the quiet moments of the workshops to the explosion of energy during the evening concert was profoundly moving. We felt an incredible sense of shared heritage and joy, especially during the open mic session where every voice added to the collective magic. This was a day of deep connection, a soulful celebration of who we are and the culture we so passionately share.
20th March 2010: Opa Cupa!
This event was a beautiful and enriching collaboration with the English Folk Dance and Song Society, dedicated to the rich traditions of Serbian music and dance. The air in Cecil Sharp House was filled with the sounds of new melodies and the rhythms of lively dance. Seeing the Zivko Firfov Folklore Group in their authentic, historical costumes was a magical experience that brought the past vividly to life, and the workshops were a joyful journey of discovery for everyone.
The day felt like a pilgrimage into the heart of a beloved culture. We were able to celebrate not just with our music, but by teaching, learning, and sharing stories through movement and song. The progression from the intimate family concert to the grand evening performance created a powerful sense of community. It was a soulful and heartfelt celebration, a perfect blend of performance and education that left a lasting impression on us all.
29th March 2009: Ajde Gadje!
Album Launch Celebration
This was a landmark day for the orchestra, a beautiful culmination of our hard work and passion poured into our new album, "Ajde Gadje!". We took over the entire Cecil Sharp House for a day-long celebration, filling every room with music, laughter, and the joyful energy of our community. From the afternoon family concert to the spirited belly dance and Gypsy jam workshops, the day was a beautiful testament to our journey as artists.
Seeing the faces of our guests and former members, all gathered to celebrate this milestone with us, was a truly moving experience. This wasn't just a launch; it was a beautiful moment of shared triumph, a chance to pour our hearts into a performance that celebrated all we had created together. It was a day that will forever live in our memories as a highlight of our collective soul, and our golden years.
17th February 2008: "A Dance through the Magic Forest" Family Concert
This special day was dedicated to the most important audience of all: the children!
The concert hall was transformed into a whimsical "Magic Forest"—a beautiful, creative atmosphere achieved with a backdrop and props handcrafted by LGO members from recycled materials.
In collaboration with our special guest, puppeteer Athena from The Marionettears, Gundula created a magical story performed by marionettes, brought to life with semi-improvised music by the orchestra. The air buzzed with excitement and the beautiful chaos of young imagination, captivating the hearts of both children and adults.
Seeing the uninhibited joy on the children's faces as they danced with wild abandon was the ultimate reward. That day was a heartwarming, soulful highlight that solidified our belief in sharing our passion with the next generation. As some audience members perfectly summed it up: "Fabulous and wild!" "Really Grand Fun" "That was like a dream!" "One of the best family afternoons we’ve had – fantastic!"
11th March 2007: The Kennedy Hall
Our Biggest Concert Yet!
Stepping onto the stage in the Kennedy Hall and seeing it packed to capacity with over 450 people was an electrifying moment. This was a monumental night for the LGO, a true test and a milestone that was a powerful testament to Gundula's vision and her tireless work in developing the orchestra. The energy from the enthusiastic audience was a powerful force, and we felt an incredible connection with every person in the room.
We were honored to be joined by the virtuoso instrumental trio Paprika Balkanicus and the incredible dancer Ljiljana Grkinic. Her performance was a moment of pure grace, and her spirit continues to live on in our music and in our memories. That night was a triumphant and deeply moving experience, a testament to the strength of our music and our community. It was a feeling of collective success, where all our hard work culminated in a night of pure magic that we will cherish forever.
A Selection From Our Most Enjoyable Festivals
25th July 2010: Rhythms of the World Festival
Playing on the main stage of the Rhythms of the World Festival was a true highlight for us. The air at Hitchin Priory was alive with a vibrant energy from all corners of the globe, and we were thrilled to pour our hearts into our most rhythmically complex pieces. Every note felt charged with purpose as we shared our music with a vast and enthusiastic crowd, and the feeling of our sound filling that beautiful space was simply electrifying.
This performance was a powerful reminder of our place in the world of music. We were so proud to be part of a festival that celebrates global harmony, and our performance was a testament to the fact that music is a universal language. It was a moment of pure joy, sharing our passion with thousands of people who were all there to celebrate culture and community.
24th June 2010: Golowan Festival
Our journey to Penzance for the Golowan Festival was a special adventure. Stepping onto the stage at the Ritz, we felt a profound sense of anticipation, knowing we were bringing our music to a new place. The audience was filled with enthusiastic dancers, and their energy was a joyful force that guided every note we played. It was a beautiful collaboration between us and the crowd.
That night was a perfect example of what makes live music so magical. It wasn't just about us playing; it was about the shared experience of music and movement. The memory of all those smiling faces and dancing feet will always stay with us. It was a soulful and heartwarming experience, a true highlight of our year.
17th October 2010: Halesworth Arts Festival
The Halesworth Arts Festival provided a very special kind of magic. While not the biggest festival, the intimacy of the sold-out concert at The Cut Arts Centre created a profound connection between us and the audience. We felt the warmth and appreciation in every single face, and it was a joy to share our music in such a focused and beautiful setting.
This performance was a beautiful testament to the power of a dedicated audience. Their enthusiasm was deeply felt and reminded us that the heart of music lies in the personal connection it forges. The experience was truly rewarding, a soulful highlight that we will always cherish as a moment of pure, shared joy.
24th May 2009: Notting Hill Mayfest
Playing the closing night of the Notting Hill Mayfest was a huge honor for us. The venue, the beautiful St. John's Church, was a truly magical setting, with its grand architecture creating a stunning backdrop for our fiery music. The atmosphere was one of celebration, a perfect end to a wonderful festival.
For us, it was a moment of deep gratitude. We felt so lucky to be a part of such a splendid time, surrounded by friends and a joyful audience. The night was a perfect harmony of sacred space and lively sound, and the memory of that perfect finale is one we hold very dear.
26th October 2008: Molten Diversity Arts Festival
The name of this festival perfectly described our experience. The stage at the Broadway Theatre was a hub of vibrant energy and culture. It was an absolute thrill to perform for such an appreciative and diverse crowd, and the energy was amplified by our special guest, the incredibly talented belly dancer Cynthia.
This performance was a powerful reminder of how art can bring people together. The combination of our music with Cynthia's dancing created a beautiful and truly soulful experience that transcended cultural boundaries. It was an honor to be part of a festival that celebrates the beauty of diversity, a moment of pure magic that left a lasting impression.
14th June 2008: Pulse Festival
Our afternoon performance at the Pulse Festival on the South Bank was a vibrant and joyful highlight. The open-air setting and the beautiful summer day made for a wonderful atmosphere. It was a simple joy to play our music for people enjoying the festival, and we felt a wonderful and intense connection with everyone who participated <could you somehow include something like: we brought a small piece of true Romany Gypsy spirit to London's South Bank, either in the 1st or 2nd para :-)>
The stage was cramped with 20+ inspired LGO musicians, directed by Gundula Gruen, all dressed up and playing their hearts out. The space in front of the stage was also cramped with people, dancing, laughing and enjoying themselves.
30th March 2006: London International Gypsy Film Festival
This was a deeply meaningful event for us, as it was a chance to celebrate Gypsy culture not just through music, but as part of a larger artistic community. Playing at the closing night party was a huge honor, and we felt an incredible sense of pride as we took the stage at the Genesis Cinema.
The audience was a beautiful reflection of our music, full of people who were already there to celebrate and honour Romany Gypsy culture. Their enthusiasm was a gift, and their energy fuelled our performance. It was a powerful, soulful moment where music and film came together to create an unforgettable, shared experience.
Projects supported by Arts Funding
2012: The Magic of Making Music
This project was a beautiful journey into the heart of community, funded by a grant that allowed us to create something truly magical. The workshops were filled with the most wonderful, buzzing energy—a symphony of focused concentration and pure joy as people learned to make their own instruments and discovered the sheer delight of making music with their hands and hearts. It was a space of creation, where music wasn't just performed, but was built from the ground up, note by note.
The highlight of this journey was the special Children's Winter Concert at Hoxton Hall. Watching the children's faces as they took to the stage, their eyes shining with pride and excitement, was a deeply moving experience. This project was a testament to our belief that music can transform lives, and seeing that magic in the smiles of the children was a reward more precious than any award. It was a perfect, soulful reminder of why we do what we do.
2011: Gypsy-It! and Gypsy Exchange
We were so grateful to receive funding for these two ambitious projects, which gave us the opportunity to share our music and culture in a profound new way. The workshops were a journey of discovery for everyone involved, filled with music, dance, and the rich, vibrant art of costume-making. We shared songs, stories, and dance steps, seeing a beautiful connection form as local people opened their hearts to the traditions of Gypsy culture.
The culmination of these projects was an outpouring of shared joy. Watching the participants perform with such pride and enthusiasm, showcasing the music and dances they had learned, was a truly heartwarming experience. This was more than just a class; it was an act of cultural exchange, a testament to the power of music to build bridges and forge deep, lasting connections between people. It was a highlight of our journey that we will never forget.
Small Gigs and Jam Sessions
24th August 2013: Balkan Organ Carnival
This was a truly thrilling and unusual concert that stretched our creativity to new heights. The magnificent, newly-restored organ at St John's Church provided a powerful backdrop, and we felt a rush of excitement as its grand sound combined with our lively Balkan rhythms and the unique, vibrant tones of a steel pan. It was a joyous and ambitious musical experiment, culminating in the soulful premiere of "One Day in Grunistan," a new piece that felt so deeply personal to our orchestra's journey.
The air in the church was electric with a kind of beautiful surprise as these very different worlds of sound came together in perfect harmony. This concert was a testament to our adventurous spirit and our love for pushing musical boundaries. Seeing the audience’s faces light up with delight at this unexpected combination was a truly special feeling, a wonderful memory of a night when we celebrated both tradition and innovation.
26th February 2011: Gypsy-It! Project Finale
This night was a profound and deeply moving celebration, the beautiful culmination of all the hard work and passion poured into our Gypsy-It! project. The atmosphere at the Round Chapel was one of immense pride and shared accomplishment. We felt a sense of overwhelming joy as we watched our participants take to the stage, showcasing the music and dance they had learned with such enthusiasm.
It was a truly soulful experience to share the stage with our guest dancers, including the elegant solos by Liljana Grkinic and Maria, and the energetic Balkan dancing led by Janna Eliot. The night was a perfect testament to the power of music to build a vibrant community, creating an unforgettable memory of a project that was all about connection, celebration, and heart.
7th March 2010: Cycle East
This was one of our most unique and fun adventures! The idea of performing three concerts in one afternoon, with the audience traveling between venues, was wonderfully unconventional. We embraced the challenge with joyful hearts, and each venue in East London was packed with a warm and enthusiastic crowd that made the entire afternoon feel like one big, shared celebration.
This event was a beautiful reminder that music is a journey, not just a destination. The energy of the traveling audiences was infectious, and their enthusiasm filled us with a sense of pure, collective joy. It was a highlight we will always cherish—a perfect memory of an afternoon where we all connected through our shared love of music and a spirit of adventure.
6th November 2009: Folk on the Move Musical Journeys through Eastern Europe
This was a truly special project, a wonderful opportunity to share our music and our passion for teaching with a new community in Cumbria. The week spent leading workshops with schools and choirs was filled with so much warmth and inspiration, and we loved watching people connect with the music in such a personal way.
The culmination of this journey was a fantastic concert where we had the profound privilege of combining our sounds with those of the choirs. The feeling of our instruments blending with so many voices was powerful and deeply moving. It was a beautiful testament to the power of music to build bridges and create a truly collaborative and shared memory.
