Ladino Music Concert Planned for March

Ladino, also known as Judeo-Spanish, is a Romance language with roots in medieval Spanish spoken by Sephardic Jews. Evolving over centuries, Ladino incorporates elements of Hebrew, Arabic, and Spanish.  It developed similarly to Yiddish but in a different region of the globe. Yiddish originated among Ashkenazi Jews in Central and Eastern Europe has elements of Hebrew and is heavily from Germanic languages. 

Ladino became the vernacular of Sephardic communities after their expulsion from Spain in 1492. Ladino served as a cultural link, preserving the linguistic and literary heritage of Spanish Jewry. While its usage has declined over time, efforts to revitalize Ladino persist, recognizing its historical and cultural significance. Today, Ladino stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Sephardic culture and the resilience of linguistic diversity.

“We strive to present high-quality performers with unique voices,” says Joy Alice Eisenhauer; Director of Arts, Culture, and Education at the Boulder JCC.  “Nani Vazana is one of the few artists in the world that write and compose new songs in the endangered Ladino language.” 

In her new album Ke Haber (What’s New) Nani Vazana captures the spirit of the ancient, matriarchal language and culture and propels it into the 21st century with socially pertinent lyrics, celebrating migration, gender, and female empowerment. Her beautiful instrumentation bridges traditional and modern life.  Nani’s flamenco-like vocals and surprising use of the trombone will surprise and delight.  

Opening for Nani will be Shaul Magid on banjo and Basya Schechter on violin. Over the centuries, Jewish music has been influenced by the many locales, people, and cultures in the communities Jewish people have lived. Communities adopted the music from their surroundings into the liturgy used in synagogues. Drawing from the music of the mountain regions from Virginia, Kentucky, and North Carolina, Shaul and Basya will play  Appalachian music adapted to well-known Jewish songs. 

All Boulder JCC programs are open to everyone, regardless of religious affiliation.  You do not need to be Jewish to participate. There is no membership requirement to participate in Boulder JCC programs.  

CONCERT: NOAM “NANI” VAZANA
Sunday, March 3, 2024, 1:00 pm
$28 per person

Advance registration is always encouraged for programs at the Boulder JCC. It allows us to make sure we have enough chairs and be in touch if there is a change due to the weather.  Using a computer rather than your mobile device will make the registration process easier for you. For registration support call 303-998-1900 or contact Acy Jackson acy.jackson@boulderjcc.org.