Preserving and Innovating Roma Music

 As a Macedonian-Romani artist, Selaedin "Sal" Mamudoski has always felt a deep connection to his heritage and the music that has been passed down through generations of Roma people. Growing up in New York City, surrounded by the vibrant sounds of Balkan, Turkish, and Romani music, he was drawn to the clarinet's warm, soulful sound. For him, it's more than just an instrument—it's a way to connect with his roots and share his story with others. Preserving and Innovating Roma Music in New York is a unique artistic project that celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the Macedonian-Roma people through contemporary clarinet music. The New York area is a particularly prominent hub for the Romani people, yet they are underrepresented in arts and society at large. As a musician and composer, Sal Mamudoski, aims to create a new body of work that fuses traditional Roma melodies and rhythms with Balkan, Turkish and American Jazz influences.