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The Casco Bay Tummlers, from Portland, Maine, have been performing klezmer music since 1988. They have released three recordings and were also featured performers on the LL Bean Holiday CD. In 1999 they created and performed the music for the world premiere of "Manifest" at Portland Stage Company.

The Tummlers have a unique sound and a stage performance that features all members of the band. Steve Gruverman brings an extensive background in ethnic dance music to his soulful clarinet playing. Carl Dimow has developed a unique klezmer flute style, making the instrument an equal solo voice in the music. Julie Goell has a rich background in theater and jazz that comes out both in her bass playing and in her vocal features. Nancy 3. Hoffman brings a playfulness which audiences love to both her accordion playing and her singing. Hayes Porterfield keeps the traditional role as drummer happening with elements of jazz and improvisation.

The band's repertoire is versatile, ranging from original music to traditional dances and Yiddish theater and ghetto songs - all with original arrangements. In addition to playing for concerts the Tummlers also love to play for weddings, bar and batmitzvahs, school residencies and other celebrations. Nancy is a wonderful dance teacher who is great at getting everyone up and having a good time. The Tummlers also do frequent school residencies; performing music, teaching dances and songs, and talking about the music, the Yiddish language, immigration and the Holocaust.

In March of 2000 the Tummlers were in Germany where they performed to sold-out houses at the Hackesches Hof Theater in Berlin and at the ninth annual Festival of Jewish Culture in Chemnitz. In May and June of 2000 they traveled to Lithuania as the first klezmer band to perform at the Skamba, Skamba Kankliai folk festival in Vilnius. They toured Lithuania performing in Pakroijis, Linkuva, Kaunas and Druskininkai. In October of 2004, they completed a tour of Slovenia and Northern Italy.

Photo by Deanne Herman
Site Updated 9/27/07