Sweet Klez performs traditional and innovative Klezmer.

The core members of Sweet Klez are Adam Sweet and Brian Bender. Other musicians and/or dance callers are added (as needed) for specific performances and events. Adam RSweet studied music at the New England Conservatory at Rivers from 1976 to 1980, graduating with a certification in Violin Performance. He performed in the Greater Boston Symphony Orchestra in 1979 touring Eastern Europe. At Apple Hill Music Camp (NH) he studied chamber music, music theory and performance. Adam studied Ethnomusicology and Psychology and in 1985 he received a B.A. in Music from Hampshire College. Adam's experience in teaching and performing are extensive. He teaches violin (fiddle), viola, mandolin, guitar, cello and bass guitar at the Northampton Community Music Center, the Keene Community Music Center and out of his studio in Belchertown, MA. In a addition to playing Klezmer with Sweet Klez, he also plays fiddle with Woodkerne Celtic Band. Adam blends the heart and soul of traditional Klezmer with the discipline of classical training. Brian A. Bender is an experienced professional folk musician, multi-instrumentalist and teacher. He has recorded on 15 CDs, receiving critical acclaim in various publications including Sing Out and Dirty Linen. Brian holds a B.A. from New England Conservatory's Third Stream Studies program, a 4-year intensive study of folk music from around the world. In addition to playing piano, Brian also plays trombone, melodica and percussion in various Klezmer, Reggae, African, Salsa and Jazz Groups. He has performed at Carnegie Hall, the Presidential Inauguration of Bill Clinton, the Cape Verde Islands (West Africa) and throughout the United States. In Sweet Klez, Brians piano and percussion accompaniment provide rhythmic, melodic and harmonic support to the fiddle melodies. Brian teaches piano, trumpet and trombone at the Community Music School of Springfield, the Berkshire Hills Music Academy, Swift River School as well as private lessons.