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Edery
and his band are among the best interpreters of Sephardic Music
in the business
- The New York Jewish Week
The Gerard Edery Ensemble
explores several of the world's musical traditions. Commanding songs
in some dozen languages, these gifted musicians bring an ancient
repertoire to the contemporary stage, while fueling the evolution
of sephardic music with new arrangements and original compositions.
From joyous hymns of celebration to poignant ballads of loss, from
flamenco-inspired pieces to holy works of praise, the Ensemble's
instrumental virtuosity and passionate performance make for an unforgettable
musical experience. Gerard Edery, composer, singer and
guitarist, was born in Casablanca and raised in Paris and New York
City. Speaking several languages throughout his childhood, Gerard
absorbed a variety of musical traditions spanning three continents.
Influenced by classical, flamenco, jazz and folk techniques, Gerard's
virtuoso guitar-playing is a fusion of styles. An authority on a
variety of musical styles, Gerard has a special passion for the
rich heritage of French, Spanish and Judeo-Spanish melody. Considered
one of the leading interpreters of Sephardic Song, he has been honored
with the Sephardic Musical Heritage Award. He also received
a Meet the Composer grant for his original songs, and his
musical, Song of the Turtledove, co-written with Noa
Ain, was presented by the Premieres festival, at Lincoln
Center.
Rex Benincasa is one of the New York
area's most versatile and sought after percussionists. With a particular
mastery of Flamenco and Middle Eastern styles, he and Gerard Edery
have investigated the Sephardic heritage in a longtime collaboration
spanning several continents.
Cristian Puig (flamenco guitar) was born and raised in Argentina. Immersed in a rich musical culture, Puig began playing the guitar at an early age. A master of flamenco and Spanish guitar, he has impressed audiences with his innate talent. His cultural authority and technical virtuosity have made him the most sought-after guitarist in the US Flamenco scene. He has performed in numerous flamenco festivals around the country including the Breaking Lines Dance Festival, and Dance Boom! He is also the musical director and guitarist of acclaimed female flamenco group, Pasion y Arte.
Sean Kupisz (bass) was born in Long Beach, California and began his bass studies with his uncle at age 8. He has composed music for the PBS Documentary International High and toured with the flamenco group Amanacer founded by Peter Cortez and Igor el Ruso. He is a permanent faculty member of the American Institute of Guitar as an upright and electric bass instructor. "Gerard Edery's creamy baritone and virtuoso guitar and saz playing create an excellent program with a wide dynamic range." Jewish Herald-Voice
"With a sweep of his fingers across a row
of chimes, percussionist, Rex Benincasa blows a warm breeze through
the middle of the song." Norwich Bulletin
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