SÖNDÖRGŐ

The primordial nature of traditional music, the sophistication of classical compositions, the energies of rock music and the purity of Bartók’s thinking characterize the Hungarian band Söndörgő, one of the most exciting, innovative and successful bands on the international world music scene.

When Söndörgő was formed more than a quarter of a century ago, the members were still children and practically grew up along with the band. Four of the five members are part of the same family of musicians: three brothers (Aaron, Benjamin and Salamon Eredics) and a cousin (David Eredics). Their spiritual backbone is the legendary Vujicsics Ensemble, which has been playing authentic South Slavic folk music for close to fifty years: father and uncle figures, along with other Eredics musicians. Thus, in accordance with Zoltán Kodály’s ideals, the musical education of the members of Söndörgő began nine months before their birth.

They are deeply acquainted with the roots of their musical world, even in a scholarly way if necessary (all four Eredics members teach at the Department of Folk Music of the Budapest Academy of Music), but what they are truly interested in is not what traditional music once meant, but what it can mean today and tomorrow.

The year 2024 marked a pivotal turning point for the band, ushering in a new era of growth and creative exploration. The band set the stage for the much-anticipated release of their transformative album „Gyezz” in the summer of the same year, featuring the illustrious jazz saxophonist Chris Potter. Gyezz has garnered rave reviews, with Jazzwise (★★★★) naming them “both authentic custodians of Southern Slavic music and its radical future.” and Songlines (★★★★) calling it a “A thrilling tour de force.” Besides this, the album reached #1 on the World Music Charts Europe, as well as #1 on the Top Of The World Songlines charts.

In 2025, Söndörgő celebrates its 30th anniversary with a special season marking this milestone. To commemorate the occasion, the band is releasing an anniversary album featuring some of the most memorable pieces from the past three decades, alongside brand-new compositions. In Hungary, the band has been given a prestigious role: Müpa has selected them as the Ensemble of the Season, ensuring multiple performances at this renowned venue.

The 30th anniversary is not just a milestone for Söndörgő—it’s a moment of renewed energy, reaffirming the band’s commitment to reimagining South Slavic and Balkan musical traditions in a contemporary way.