The haïdouti, part-brigands, part-righters of wrongs, reigned supreme in the region of Bulgaria and Macedonia between the 14th and 18th centuries. They robbed the rich and the powerful, then went back to their hiding-place in the depths of the forest... Today, armed with nothing more than musical instruments, the HAÏDOUTI Orkestar has arrived! Presenting a traditional music that is "nostalgic" but also resolutely festive, ready to unleash sometimes frenetic dances under the effect of the local raki, this atypical formation will certainly attract Balkanophiles, lovers of goulash and eau de vie, but also all those who are looking for traditional dances such as kolos, coceks, rachenitsa and kopanitsa. These musicians are also travellers! Since 2002, they have formed their repertoire from the immense musical heritage of Bulgaria, Turkey and Macedonia ; they have crossed the Black Sea to go to Thrace, the country of Orpheus, as far as the Adriatic, and today present a completely new formation. HAÏDOUTI Orkestar proposes, either in acoustic walkabouts or on stage, an authentic traditional music. Ornamentation, harmonisation and improvisation are all crucial, in the pure Balkan tradition. "Na zdravé", the ball has commenced!...

"This atypical Franco-Balkan septet offers a real voyage through the traditional music of Bulgaria, Macedonia, Serbia, Romania, Greece and Turkey, and all with a spirit which reminds us of the gypsy tradition. A mixed yet close-knit fanfare, the Haïdouti Orkestar evokes in turn the richly coloured universe of Emir Kusturica and the traditional dances of Eastern Europe. The jazzy improvisations of the accordion respond to the clever, lively melodies of two trumpets and a saxophone." - M. Mvx - DERNIERES NOUVELLES D'ALSACE