Brave Old World

Brave Old World is a groundbreaking klezmer ensemble that helped redefine the genre in the late 20th century. Formed in the late 1980s, the group is composed of international virtuosos including Michael Alpert, Alan Bern, Kurt Bjorling, and Stuart Brotman—each bringing deep roots in Yiddish culture and broad musical expertise. Fusing traditional Eastern European Jewish music with contemporary arrangements and global influences, Brave Old World earned a reputation for their emotionally rich and technically masterful performances.

Their albums, like Beyond the Pale and Song of the Łódź Ghetto, showcase a sophisticated blend of history, memory, and artistic innovation. Known for their deep engagement with Jewish cultural heritage, they have performed at major festivals and venues around the world, contributing significantly to the revival and evolution of klezmer music.