Watch The Wandering Muse

The Wandering Muse, a 2014 documentary film directed by Tamás Wormser, is an exploration of the global roots of music and the impact it has on the various cultures it touches. The film follows several musicians as they travel around the world, making connections with people from diverse backgrounds and learning about the ways in which music can serve as a unifying force.

The film begins in Israel, where we meet Josh Dolgin, a musician and accordionist who is passionate about Jewish music. He takes us on a journey through the country, introducing us to various musicians who are keeping traditional Jewish music alive. We meet cantors who sing in synagogues, street musicians who play klezmer music, and even a group of Ethiopian Jews who have created their own unique blend of Jewish and African music.

From Israel, we travel to Russia, where we meet Psoy Korolenko, a musician and ethnomusicologist who is interested in the intersection of Jewish and Russian music. He takes us on a tour of Moscow, introducing us to various musicians who are keeping traditional Russian music alive. We also visit a music school in Kazakhstan, where we meet young musicians who are learning traditional Kazakh music.

Next, we travel to Germany, where we meet Daniel Kahn, a musician who is passionate about Yiddish music. He takes us on a tour of Berlin, introducing us to various musicians who are keeping traditional Yiddish music alive. We also visit a Jewish cemetery where Kahn performs a moving tribute to the Jewish victims of the Holocaust.

Throughout the film, we learn about the role that music has played in the various cultures we visit. We see how music has helped to preserve traditions and bring communities together. We also see how music has been used to express a sense of longing and loss, particularly in Jewish cultures where there is a strong connection to homeland and history.

The Wandering Muse is a visually stunning film, with beautiful shots of the landscapes and people we visit. The music is also a highlight of the film, with a diverse range of styles and traditions represented. From traditional Middle Eastern music to modern Israeli pop, from Russian folk songs to Yiddish punk rock, there is something here for everyone.

Ultimately, the film is a celebration of the power of music to transcend cultural and geographic boundaries. It reminds us that, as different as we may seem on the surface, we are all human beings with a shared need for connection and expression. The Wandering Muse is a must-see for anyone who loves music, travel, and the exploration of different cultures.