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Babik

generational and stylistic lines to create a fan base that is as diverse as their musical influences, which also include Brazilian and Latin sounds, as well as original compositions. The group' s ability to connect is evident in the way audiences clamber to clap, dance, and cheer along with nearly every performance. They improvise passionately and create music that balances refined musicianship with the raw energy of a Gypsy campfire. Since forming in 2005, Babik has enjoyed both commercial and artistic success.

All four members - Stuart Fuchs on lead guitar, Geoffrey Fitzhugh Perry on violin, Joshua Assad on rhythm guitar, and Kevin O'Brien on upright bass - are full time professional musicians, and the success of their partnership, both on and off stage, shows in their lighthearted improvisational performances.

Babik has won "Best Jazz Band" from Artvoice' s Readers Choice Awards for three years running. In 2008 they performed a pops concert with the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra. Babik performs over 150 shows a year at concert halls and festivals, in addition to facilitating educational programs and improvisation workshops at high schools and colleges.

Art Forms:
Music

Programs

Journey Through Gypsy Jazz add to wish list

Take a musical ride through Europe, America and beyond! In this fun and lively concert, Babik will introduce students to the riveting histories and music of Gypsy Guitar virtuoso, Django Reinhardt, and French jazz violinist, Stéphane Grappelli.

The very popular music of "Swing de Paris" kept spirits high during World War II, on both the battlefield and the homefront. As one of its creators, Reinhardt survived Nazi persecution of the Gypsy people, and a crippling hand burn, to become a Jazz guitar icon. His story inspires hope and perseverance, while also highlighting sometimes ignored aspects of World War II, Gypsy culture, and Jazz.

Programs for high school students studying World War II will include more WWII history and a more detailed description of Reinhardt' s evasion of Nazi persecution.

Grade Level:
4-12
Performance cost (single):
$770.00
Performance cost (back to back):
$985.00