A Night in Budapest Press Release 9-12-09

A NIGHT IN BUDAPEST
An evening with the rare Hungarian Cimbalom at Gypsy Café.

On Saturday, September 12, 2009, South Side’s Gypsy Café will host “A Night in Budapest”, an evening of Hungarian music and food featuring the seldom-seen Cimbalom. Pittsburgh’s George Batyi and Bob Sestili of The Gypsy Strings and special guests will join Chicago Cimbalist Alex Udvary for an intimate dinner and private concert.

Few people can define “cimbalom” let alone describe one. This uncommon musical instrument is of the Dulcimer family, a kind of piano-xylophone hybrid, stringed, but struck with hammers. Although smaller traveling versions of the cimbalom exist, Mr. Udvary’s nearly full-size cimbalom is a rarity outside of Eastern European concert halls.

Centuries ago, the Cimbalom was adopted by Romani (Gypsy) musicians, and the instruments traveled with them throughout Europe. Cimbalom (tsimbal) is also an important instrument in Klezmer orchestras.

The musicians will play “European Style” through the dinner courses, starting with sets on the stage and continuing to individual tables to solicit requests. It is customary to tip the orchestra, especially for playing requests.

Reservations are necessary and seating is limited. $35 per person includes the three-hour show and a three-course Hungarian meal including dessert, soft drinks, and coffee. Tax and tip are not included. For more information, visit www.gypsycafe.net or contact Gypsy Café at 412.381.GYPSY (4977).

Composers noted for their use of the cimbalom include Zoltan Kodaly, Igor Stravinsky, Pierre Boulez, Peter Eotvos, Gyorgy Kurtag, Louis Andriessen, Henri Dutilleux, and even Elvis Costello.

Gypsy Café is an intimate neighborhood café featuring the cuisines of the Mediterranean and beyond. Full bar; non-smoking. Reservations necessary. A second show may be added Friday, September 11, 2009
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For more information, or to schedule an interview with George Batyi, violinist, contact:
Melanie Evankovich George Batyi
Gypsy Café Gypsy Violinist
412.381.4977 412.853.3569
gypsy@gypsycafe.net gbatyi@aol.com


Melanie EvankovichJim DietzGypsy Cafe1330 Bingham Streetcorner of Bingham and 14th StreetsPittsburgh, PA 15203412.381.GYPSY (4977)www.gypsycafe.net

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