Havdalah Happy Hour and Xylophone Concert

Saturday, September 9, 2023

Havdalah Ceremony and Happy Hour: 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Concert: 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Join us at the Maine Jewish Museum for a collaborative community Havdalah Happy Hour and Xylophone Concert in celebration of our shared immigrant roots! Special guest and concert performer Roman Lankios, who immigrated to the USA from Ukraine in 1994, is a virtuoso xylophonist who is internationally renowned for his mastery of classical, pop, country, and folk music on the unique four-row xylophone. Toast to the new week with a glass of wine, a craft beer, or a Kyiv Mule, enjoy pierogies from Bogushas Polish Restaurant and Deli and knishes from BenReuben’s Knishery, and treat yourself to a singular musical experience by one of the greats! Co-Sponsored by Etz Chaim Synagogue, the Portland Immigrant Welcome Center, the Jewish Community Alliance of Southern Maine, and Mayo Street Arts.

Performer Bio: Born and raised in Ukraine, Roman Lankios originally planned to be a professional drummer, but fell in love with the xylophone during a mandatory classical music class at the age of 17. He spent the next four years mastering the xylophone while learning modern beats playing drums in the school band, then continued his learning at a music conservatory. Upon graduation from the conservatory, Roman joined the renowned Ukrainian band Svityaz as a drummer, touring with the band throughout Europe. In 1994, he immigrated to the United States and turned his focus to his beloved xyophphone, establishing himself as a masterful musician who can charm the toughest critic with his up-beat tempos and personal charisma. Roman’s performed in multiple venues and across multiple media including ABC 7 TV, Avery Fisher Hall at Lincoln Center, Winter’s Eve at Lincoln Square, Day of Percussion at the New Jersey Chapter of the Percussive Arts Society, and the Stand with Ukraine fundraising concert. This will be his inaugural Maine appearance.