Etz Haïm: klezmer as an ode to life
In 8 days
During a stay in Nancy, here is a season-opening concert not to miss: the quintet Klezmhear presents Etz Haïm, "tree of life" in Hebrew. A creation rooted in the klezmer and Balkan traditions, where the instruments become voices that sing, weep and burst with joy.
Etz Haïm, the tree of life
Etz Haïm, meaning "tree of life" in Hebrew and the title of the group's second album, is a genuine ode to life. Rooted in the klezmer tradition, this original creation draws on its musicians' influences and crosses borders to reach the universal: the emotion of instruments that become voices. A repertoire where melancholy constantly rubs shoulders with bursts of joy, as in the great celebrations of Yiddish culture.
A quintet of a thousand colors
On stage, five musicians: Emma Errera on violin, Valentin De Nicola on double bass, Benjamin Mayer on clarinet and composition, Clément Dague on guitar and François Hagenmuller on percussion. Together they make traditional klezmer and Balkan music sing, cry, whistle and whisper with deep feeling. The clarinet holds the central role, whirling and talkative, borne by a rhythm that almost invites dancing. A living dialogue, in which each instrument tells a story.
Klezmer, a music of sharing
Born in the Jewish communities of Eastern Europe, klezmer music accompanied weddings and celebrations, blending overflowing joy with nostalgia. Klezmhear offers an open reading of it, enriched by Balkan colours and the sensibility of its players. No need to be an expert to be swept along: this music speaks straight to the body and the heart. It is also a fine gateway to a living heritage, to discover over an evening in Nancy.
Opening the season in Nancy
Scheduled for the season opening, this concert is part of the cultural program of the Greater Nancy Conservatory. It is a warm event, ideal for an evening between two days of sightseeing, once you have already wandered Place Stanislas and the Pépinière park. Do check the exact venue, time and admission details on the official website, as the season opening may bring several offerings together at once.
Infos pratiques
Adresse : 54000 Nancy
Questions fréquentes
Who plays in Etz Haïm?
The quintet Klezmhear: Emma Errera (violin), Valentin De Nicola (double bass), Benjamin Mayer (clarinet and composition), Clément Dague (guitar) and François Hagenmuller (percussion).
What is klezmer music?
A festive music born in the Jewish communities of Eastern Europe, where clarinet and violin blend joy and nostalgia. Klezmhear enriches it with Balkan influences.
Do I need to know this repertoire to attend?
No. This generous, rhythmic music can be enjoyed without preparation: it speaks straight to the emotions and suits all audiences, newcomers included.
Where and how can I attend the concert?
The concert is held in Nancy as part of the Greater Nancy Conservatory's cultural season. The exact venue, time and admission details are on the official website.





