Private Events

Klezmer is irresistible Jewish music that originated in the Yiddish-speaking communities of Eastern Europe. Klezmorim played for simchas and rituals, bringing joy, hope, and richness to all who listened and danced. Today the Red Hot Chachkas blend klezmer with elements of other musical genres, creating a unique, exciting, and dancable sound.

Hailing from the San Francisco Bay Area, the Red Hot Chachkas infuse the klezmer tradition of Eastern European Yiddish music with American jazz, funk, oldtime, classical, and latin influences in their original compositions, arrangements, and improvisations. Their contagious musical performances inspire and transform audiences. At concert performances from Toronto's Ashkenaz Festival to San Francisco's Davies Symphony Hall, favorite clubs, theaters, galleries, community centers, schools, and Jewish congregations, as well as private parties and simchas ranging from orthodox to outlandish, their hot sound and uptempo beat has folks up dancing. Led by bandleader, dance leader, and classical violinist Julie Egger, the seasoned musicians draw on disparate influences and backgrounds, including soulful Barbara Speed (clarinet), balkanic Diana Strong (accordion), bluegrass Tony Phillips (mandolin), jazzy Breck Diebel (bass), and worldly Aharon Wheels Bolsta (drums). Their latest CD "Beats Without Borders" (2010) presents all new tunes composed by band members, and follows "Spice It Up!" (2007), and "Family Album" (2002).

The Red Hot Chachkas specialize in creating the perfect simcha, assembly, or performance for each occasion. The band members are both performers and educators. From teaching and leading dance, encouraging participants, and MC'ing to cultural awareness activities, they can customize each event to the needs of the audience. "We draw in our audiences at their level, ability, and desire, creating a unique experience that will not only touch them during the performance, but will live on after we are long gone," says band founder Julie Egger. If desired, they can add some non-klezmer material, ranging from classical to jazz to old-time to rock 'n' roll.

In addition, the members in the group are all experienced music teachers, and can teach individual students or conduct group workshops. To suit a particular occasion, we may include former band members, other musicians, singer, or dance teacher.

Dance party for bas mitzvah, video by Leonard Levy