Embark on a musical journey through time as The Klezmer Institute proudly presents “Trampled Manuscripts: The Lost Klezmer Music of the An-sky Expeditions Concert.”

The unique event is part of C.H. Booth Library’s Stories of Exile” program series, and is scheduled for Saturday, October 21, at 2 pm. Set to captivate audiences with a treasure trove of newly-discovered Ukrainian Jewish music from a century ago, the event will be offered in the meeting room of the library, 25 Main Street.

Led by Klezmer Institute Executive Director Christina Crowder, the special concert will premiere selected compositions from recently unearthed tunes. The musical gems are currently undergoing digitization as part of the Klezmer Institute’s groundbreaking international community-driven digital humanities initiative, the Kiselgof-Makonovetsky Digital Manuscript Project.

The concert promises to offer a rare glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Ukrainian Jewish communities, bringing to life melodies that have remained unheard for 100 years.

Through the Kiselgof-Makonovetsky Digital Manuscript Project, these trampled manuscripts have been meticulously preserved, allowing audiences to connect with the vibrant musical traditions of the past.

At the heart of this concert lies a captivating narrative that introduces audiences to the fascinating characters behind the trampled pages. These stories are woven into the music, revealing the lives and experiences of the people who transcribed these melodies for themselves.

Attendees will discover the tale of the high-falutin’ strangers from St Petersburg, who ventured into the shtetls of Ukraine in the summer of 1913, collecting these precious musical treasures.

Tom Nolan, head of Circulation at C.H. Booth Library, says the program is not just a concert, “it’s a bridge connecting us to a forgotten era, an exploration of cultural resilience and creativity. Through this concert, we aim to honor the legacy of these musicians and their enduring contribution to the world of music.”

Registration is requested for Saturday’s concert, and available by calling 203-426-4533 or visiting chboothlibrary.org.