International Day of Gypsy Song Monika Rostás and Gipsy Moods (Hungary) + Balkan Roma Musik Band (Berlin) 08.08.24 in Berlin, Badehaus

Móni Rostás and Gypsy Moods

During her adolescent years, Monika transitioned from a rural setting to Budapest, the capitalof Hungary. She received an invitation to join Ando Drom, a globally renowned gypsy bandof the 1980-2000 era. Over a decade, she lent her vocals to the ensemble, touring worldwideand showcasing the Hungarian Roma folklore singing tradition. Throughout her tenure, theorchestra produced five successful albums. Following this chapter, Móni and her counterpartsestablished the Szakcsi Gipsy Jazz Orchestra after the passing of the esteemed Béla SzakcsiLakatos, a Kossuth Prize recipient. This collaborative effort resulted in the creation of a distinct and exceptional musical ensemble that captivated audiences worldwide.

In 2004, their seminal album "Na Dara" was unveiled, featuring Móni's independentcomposition "A Little Gypsy Song for You." Notably, this composition epitomized her uniquestyle of improvisational singing, which presented a fresh challenge and an avenue for musical refinement. Her grateful acknowledgment expressed deep gratitude to the late music maestroBéla Szakcsi Lakatos for his invaluable contributions.

Móni Rostás, along with her ensemble and three accompanying musicians, specializes in presenting authentic gypsy folklore music, focusing on songs originating from Szatmár and the Upper Tisza countryside. Their repertoire includes both traditional pieces and originalcompositions. Additionally, the incorporation of revived Ando Drom songs has enhanced thedepth and diversity of their performances.