Day of the Gipsy Songs

Monika Rostás and Gipsy Moods (Hungary)
Balkan Roma Musik Band (Berlin)

During her adolescent years, Monika transitioned from a rural setting to Budapest, the capital of Hungary. She received an invitation to join Ando Drom, a globally renowned gypsy band of the 1980-2000 era. Over a decade, she lent her vocals to the ensemble, touring worldwide and showcasing the Hungarian Roma folklore singing tradition. Throughout her tenure, the orchestra produced five successful albums. Following this chapter, Móni and her counterparts established the Szakcsi Gipsy Jazz Orchestra after the passing of the esteemed Béla Szakcsi Lakatos, 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 independent composition „A Little Gypsy Song for You.“ Notably, this composition epitomized her unique style of improvisational singing, which presented a fresh challenge and an avenue for musical refinement. Her grateful acknowledgment expressed deep gratitude to the late music maestro Béla 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 original compositions. Additionally, the incorporation of revived Ando Drom songs has enhanced the depth and diversity of their performances.