Gypsy Brass from Romania in Bloomington, MN

Despite centuries of persecution, the gypsy musical tradition still thrives throughout Europe in its streets, bars, and cafes. The Romanian gypsy brass band Fanfara Din Cozmesti, a multi-purpose outfit that performs at religious events as well as social occasions, is one of the many musical branches of this vibrant culture. Their music may be rooted in the military bands of the 19th century Ottoman Empire, but tunes like "Cantecul Miresi," "Batuta," and "Sarba Verisorilor" are polyrhythmic, Eastern influenced, and often raucously cheerful.