Spotlight: Moyshele’s Merry Mishpokh

On December 16th, Musical Memories Project was honored to collaborate with Memphis Jewish Home & Rehab to present a festive Hanukkah concert for the residents, featuring the lively klezmer ensemble Moyshele’s Merry Mishpokhe.

The performance brought the sounds of Jewish tradition to life through energetic rhythms, familiar melodies, and joyful musical storytelling. Moyshele’s Merry Mishpokhe is a Memphis-based “klezzical” ensemble made up of family and friends who perform original compositions and creative arrangements inspired by classical music, klezmer, and traditions in between.

Learn more about the ensemble at www.fellerfriedman.com

The ensemble featured Diane Cohen (violin), Rena Feller and Andrew Clark (clarinet), Stanley Friedman and Max Friedman (trumpet, with Yiddish vocals), along with Ken Spain and Mark Vail on low brass. Several members of the group—Diane Cohen, Rena Feller, and Mark Vail—are also musicians with the Memphis Symphony, bringing exceptional artistry and depth to the performance.

The program included well-loved selections such as Matchmaker, Sunrise Sunset, and To Life! from Fiddler on the Roof, along with traditional Hanukkah and klezmer favorites including O Chanukah, Hava Nagila, Dreidel, and spirited freilachs and nigunim. The music created a warm, celebratory atmosphere that honored the season and its traditions.

Musical Memories Project is deeply grateful to Memphis Jewish Home & Rehab for welcoming us into their community and for partnering with us to make this Hanukkah celebration possible. We also extend our sincere thanks to Moyshele’s Merry Mishpokhe for sharing their talent and helping create a meaningful and joyful experience for the residents.

This concert was a beautiful reminder of how live music preserves cultural memory, sparks connection, and brings moments of happiness to seniors—especially during special times of the year.