Oktopus returns to Or Shalom April 10, 2022!

Just in time for spring and Passover, Or Shalom is honoured to be part of Oktopus’ 2022 Western Canada tour.

Oktopus is a major presence on the Canadian world music scene, with over 250 performances to its credit at home and abroad. The group is primarily devoted to klezmer—the musical heritage of Eastern European Jews—distinguished by a novel approach that incorporates various components of classical, Québécois, and jazz repertoires.

Oktopus’ distinctive music is undeniably rooted in the klezmer tradition, reflecting the rich history of a thousand-year-old community, its persecutions and celebrations, tears and laughter, or both at the same time. Musicians of yesteryear incorporated in their repertoire the music they encountered on their journeys, and just like them, the members of Oktopus are inspired by the music they hear throughout their own travels. Thus, the melodies of several classical composers, such as Bartók, Brahms, Prokofiev or Enescu are rearranged by the octet, particularly their works derived from folk themes. Quebec songwriters are also sources of inspiration, with Leclerc and Vigneault being added to the group’s repertoire.

Tickets are available for either a limited 50 person in-person access at $36 and unlimited tickets for live-streaming.at $18

Covid-19 protocols will be observed as proposed by BC Health Services at the time.