SIDE PROJECTS

On Feb 22, Martin van de Ven will debut a new orchestral composition at a concert entitled “Folk Feast” featuring the Koffler Chamber Orchestra under the direction of Jacques Israelievitch. The show will include an international buffet of folk tunes and dances from such diverse spots as Japan, Romania and Poland. Click here for more details. On Feb 15 Eric Stein will present a lecture entitled “Klezmer 101″ as part of Limmud, the Jewish Festival of Learning, followed by a related evening cabaret event in which Eric will debut a new ensemble performing Brazilian Choro music. Bret Higgins will also play in this ensemble, and for his own part remains quite busy with various groups including The Outlanders, Zebrina, the Mirobolus String Trio, and others. Visit Bret’s MySpace for more info. Aleksandar Gajic will be featured in an eclectic “Spring Concert” on March 21 that will include a rotating ensemble of violin, clarinet, piano, and voice performing selections from classical to folk music and beyond. See Alek’s MySpace for details. Meanwhile, BTP heads to the west coast Feb 20-23 for a mini-tour in BC highlighted by a performance at Vancouver’s Chutzpah Festival. Post-production work is continuing on BTP’s new CD and summer touring plans are taking shape. Stay tuned for details.