Max performs his solo project, Sax Sounds for a New Yiddish World, at Klezkolorado, a weekend-long celebration of Klezmer music, Yiddish culture, creativity, and Jewish community in the heart of Denver. The project is a set of klezmer and Eastern European folk music arranged for four saxophones using live looping to create multi-part arrangements in real-time. Max weaves traditional klezmer tunes as recorded by artists such as Harry Kandel, Paul Pincus, and German Goldenshteyn into multi-section compositions that augment the saxophone range and sound through electronic effects. Arrangements include other contemporary musical elements such as looped "hooks" and improvised solo sections. The result is a convergence of past and present sounds, creating sonic landscapes of a new Yiddish world. The project is funded by the City of Phoenix Office of Arts and Culture's Artists to Work grant program. 

A portion of all proceeds supports the Logan's Healing Sounds Fund, 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Tickets here. Read Arizona Republic coverage.

Accompanying Cantorial Soloist Jordanna Matlock. https://templesolel.org/

Solo saxophone at Ella by the Park restaurant.

Phoenix Afrobeat Orchestra with special guests JFUNK and Trip Hazard. Tickets here.

Accompanying Cantorial Soloist Jordanna Matlock.

Solo saxophone for the opening of Ella by the Park restaurant at the new Hotel Solaya.

Little Chef plays for dancing at the second Phoenix Eastern European Folk Festival at 7:00pm. Starting at 12:00pm, enjoy dance and music workshops on Bulgarian, Serbian, Turkish, Polish, and other Balkan traditions, along with a special guest lecture and cultural exhibition. $30 admission. Learn more.

Little Chef visits Prescott for a of klezmer music and Yiddish songs featuring David Leviyev (vocal), with special guest Ben Negley (trombone). Tickets available at the door: $20 for non-members.

Little Chef performs Yiddish songs and klezmer classics for a private 80th birthday celebration in Paradise Valley, Arizona.

JFUNK plays the annual Brett’s Birthday Bash event at Linger Longer Lounge.

Food, drinks, and free music under the Arizona sun at Scottsdale Civic Center. More info here.

Open Drom Sessions is a new monthly jam at Dark Side dedicated to the music and spirit of Klezmer, Balkan, Turkish, Flamenco, Bulgarian, and beyond—a celebration of music without borders.

Each session begins with a set from a house band, then the floor opens up for a community jam. Bring your instrument, your voice, your iPad—or just your ears. Come dance, sing, play, or simply listen. Everyone is welcome, whether you’re a seasoned player or just curious about these traditions.

The event is 21+, so grab a beer, settle in, and join the circle. Bring your instrument, not your opinions—we’re here for the music and nothing else.

Peoria’s 2nd Saturdays is a free, family-friendly music and art festival held on the second Saturday of each month from October 11 through April 11 in the heart of Downtown Peoria. From 4:00 to 8:00 p.m., the historic district comes alive with local art, live music, artisan vendors, hands-on activities, and community spirit. Come explore one of Arizona’s most creative monthly gatherings — and experience the best in local art, music, and artisan goods.

Playing jazz and pop hits on the rooftop patio of Phoenix’s newest French restaurant and cafe. Visit Brasserie Melrose.

Max teaches a session on klezmer saxophone at Yiddish New York - one day only!

Practicing Safe Sax: Exploring the Saxophone's Role in Klezmer

Saxophonists of YNY, assemble! This session will provide a safe space for saxophonists of all levels to explore the different roles that the members of the saxophone family can play in klezmer ensembles, as well as opportunities and challenges in adapting klezmer clarinet techniques for saxophone. Through historical recording examples of iconic klezmer saxophonist Howie Leess and instructor demonstrations, participants will gain practical techniques and ideas for developing their own personal klezmer saxophone style. Come prepared to listen, discuss, and perhaps even experience a saxual awakening!

The Bergamot presents “A Cattle Track Christmas”, a magical Scottsdale concert filled with timeless classics and heartfelt originals. Tickets here.

The Bergamot return for a special holiday concert at an annual private party in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Max performs with the Little Chef Klezmer Band at a private bar mitzvah celebration in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Nathaniel Paul Hoff and Jillian Speece, joined by their full band, share their soaring harmonies, heartwarming stories, timeless Christmas classics and fan-favorite originals that capture the true spirit of the season. Hailed by People Magazine as “the hottest emerging music talent,” The Bergamot invites you to grab your loved ones to celebrate and kick the Christmas season off right! More info here.

Little Chef Klezmer Band performs at the first Open Drom Sessions event.

Open Drom Sessions is a new monthly jam at Dark Side dedicated to the music and spirit of Klezmer, Balkan, Turkish, Flamenco, Bulgarian, and beyond—a celebration of music without borders.

Each session begins with a set from a house band, then the floor opens up for a community jam. Bring your instrument, your voice, your iPad—or just your ears. Come dance, sing, play, or simply listen. Everyone is welcome, whether you’re a seasoned player or just curious about these traditions.

The event is 21+, so grab a beer, settle in, and join the circle. Bring your instrument, not your opinions—we’re here for the music and nothing else.

Register here.

JFUNK returns to Bisbee’s Sidepony Express festival. Sets at Copper Queen Hotel at 6pm and St. Elmo Bar at 12:30am.