CHOBAN AKOUSTIK - Since 2010, the members of Choban Akoustik (and Choban Elektrik) have been collaborating to create new takes on the folk music from the Balkans. Jordan Shapiro (keys) brings a rock/jazz-fusion background with his experience of playing in progressive music ensembles, combining it with his years of studies of Albanian accordion traditions. The band, normally billed as "Choban Elektrik" and performing on electric instruments, is taking a new approach to their sound, by bringing an (almost) acoustic version of the band to the Howland Cultural Center, featuring the Center's beautiful Steinway Grand piano as the main instrument - a sound not normally associated with Balkan folk music. JORDAN SHAPIRO (piano) JESSE KOTANSKY (violin) BEN ROLSTON (bass) PHIL KESTER (drums)

DOLUNAY - Since 2012, has lured audiences with their approach to Turkish and Rumeli musical traditions.  The duo infuses classic and contemporary traditions with an urban grit that can only be found in New York City’s confluence of musical and cultural forces. JENNY LUNA (voice, percussion) ADAM GOOD (UD)