Purdue News

August 18, 2000 Jewish Studies open house to feature local band WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. – Purdue University's Jewish Studies Program will hold its annual open house on Sept. 5 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the Anniversary Drawing Room of the Purdue Memorial Union. The event is free and open to the public. Back by popular demand, the Lafayette Klezmorim will perform beginning at 5 p.m. The seven member ensemble plays an eclectic mix of Eastern European music, frolicking dance tunes, Israeli songs and other assorted music styles, said Neil Zimmerman, who plays clarinet for the band. Zimmerman also is an associate professor of industrial hygiene at Purdue. The Lafayette Klezmorim originated more than 20 years ago with only three members, Zimmerman said. The band's repertoire also has grown tremendously since its early days. Band members hope to give open house guests a taste of the music on its new CD, "Crossing the Bridge." "This is our first CD, but our second recording," Zimmerman said. "The CD includes many of our current favorites, and old standbys." The open house has become an annual event of the Jewish Studies Program. "We started the tradition of having a Jewish Studies Program open house three years ago when I arrived as director," Sandor Goodhart said. "There will be food, entertainment, a chance to meet with Jewish Studies faculty members, and in general, an opportunity to learn more about the curricular instruction, cultural programming and other activities that have made Jewish Studies so visible and vital a presence at Purdue." CONTACT: Sandor Goodhart, (765) 494-3720, goodhart@purdue.edu To the Purdue News and Photos Page