A charismatic showcase of virtuoso violin, soulful vocals, and passionate skirt dance, tracing a musical journey from the Danube Delta to the River Don. Honouring the legendary Romany legacy, this engaging programme includes an artful selection of iconic Soviet Romany film themes and music from the renowned Erdenko Gypsy music dynasty, alongside traditional melodies of travelling musicians migrating across the Eurasian Steppe, also called the ancient ‘Sea of Grass’. Interspersed with folk songs from Ukraine and Russia, you can expect an evocative performance of vivid colours and soulful intensity, presented by violin, vocals, accordion, guitar, cello, and two spectacular dancers.

 

The History of the Project:

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I have performed Russian Gypsy music as Tsiganskaya Dusha for many years, collaborating with many talented dancers and singers. However, due to recent geopolitical events, the ‘Russian’ label attached to this project has developed an increasingly bittersweet tone. This stands in complete contrast to the music and dance art itself, which remains beautiful, soulful, and filled with a profound sense of positive energy and joy.

In truth, this music belongs to a kind-hearted and spirited people; it is entirely separate from the Russia we see in the daily headlines. Moreover, the music originates from a much wider region than Russia, and is largely from the Romany people, a peaceful minority with a heritage of migration and resilience rather than conflict. We have reimagined this project as a sincere message of peace, carrying the healing energies of love, beauty, friendship, and forgiveness in every note. Whilst some pieces are deeply reflective, in others, a sense of humour and lightness outweighs everything else.