The Yuri Yunakov Ensemble performs Bulgarian and Romani (Gypsy) music from the Balkan countries. This music is renowned for its haunting melodies, dense ornamentation, complex rhythms, and stunning improvisations. The geographical position of the Balkans in southeastern Europe and hundreds of years of Ottoman Turkish rule have created a wealth of influences from both East and West. The ensemble plays in a contemporary styled called “wedding music,” so named for its ubiquitous presence at life cycle celebrations such as weddings and baptisms where dancing and music are a requirement.

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