Robyn Helzner Trio. Photo provided by Strathmore.
Robyn Helzner is a beautiful musician who shines on stage. Her passion for the traditional Jewish music that she sings comes through and makes her that much more engaging as a performer. She has traveled the world to share this lovely music and to tell her stories and it was a special treat to see her at the Mansion.
It was a joyous night of love and light.
Her trio is made up of herself, Dov Weitman and Matt Holsen, Weitman is a gifted guitar and mandolin player. He plays nimbly and with great joy. Holsen is a lovely bass player who holds the three together with his delicate and deep lines. Both men also have charming voices that match Helzner’s well.
The trio was joined on stage by Jason Walker, a talented percussionist who kept the group on track. He had an ability to almost disappear while providing the steady rhythm. He was a marvelous addition to the group.
They were also joined on stage my Rochelle Helzner, Robyn Helzner’s sister. Rochelle is a local cantor at a synagogue and she sang along beautifully. She has a gorgeously robust voice and these sisters have remarkable chemistry that allows their voices to blend perfectly
The program consisted of all Jewish music, mostly celebrating Hanukkah. There were many pieces of traditional liturgy with some contemporary songs thrown in. All of them were full of joy and celebration. There was one about playing dreidel set to an old Irish tune. They even included a piece for Woody Guthrie, who wrote a great deal of music celebrating Hanukkah.
It was a joyous night of love and light. Robyn Helzner and all the others on stage were full of a happy charisma that made watching them a sheer pleasure. They have the ability to tell a sweet story through their music.
Robyn Helzner Trio performed at the Mansion at Strathmore. For tickets and more information click here.
