Duo Moldova & Mahala: Moldavian & Romanian Lautari Music (TWO SHOWS)

ballads, high-energy wedding dances, and village-style tunes. Hailing straight from the source and having been steeped in this tradition from birth, Duo Moldova passionately embodies these traditions, transporting the audience back to the weddings and the summer nights on the porches where the duo grew up. Opening the evening is San Francisco-based group Mahala.
FEATURING
Duo Moldova Sergei Popa – accordion Valy Lautar – violin
Mahala Andrew Cohen – accordion Annie Cilley – violin Balder ten Cate – cimbalom Matt Stein – violin Travis Hendrix – upright bass
ABOUT THE ARTISTS
Sergiu Popa (Duo Moldova), born in Chisinau, Moldova, completed his studies at Stefan Neaga College of Music, as well as two years of studies at the Conservatory of Moldova, before emigrating to Canada in 2002. Since a young age, he simultaneously studied traditional folk and Roma styles with his father, Ion Popa, himself a well-recognized accordionist in Moldova. Over many years of playing alongside his father at weddings, he became familiar with Jewish, Turkish, Russian, Serbian, and Bulgarian styles as well. Despite his young age, he is quickly establishing a reputation as one of most brilliant accordionists in Canada today.
Valy Lautar (Duo Moldova) also grew up in Chisinau, where he graduated from the Conservatory of Moldova and collaborated with several Moldavian professional orchestras. He worked for five years as a musician on transatlantic cruise lines before permanently settling in the new world. Lautar currently lives in Montreal, where he collaborates with Popa and many other local musicians. He specializes in a wide array of musical styles, including traditional wedding music from Moldova and other parts of Eastern Europe, as well as classical and “cafe concert” music.
Mahala is a collaborative project bringing together some of the finest musicians from the local Bay Area Balkan music scene. The group performs both traditional as well as original music in the Romanian and Moldavian Lautari style.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
EVENT TIME
When should I arrive?Doors open 30 minutes before the scheduled performance time. For example, if the show is scheduled to start at 7:30pm, the doors will open at 7:00pm. If the show is scheduled to start at 8:00pm, the doors will open at 7:30pm, and so on.
TICKETING & ADMISSION
When does the box office open to buy tickets at the door?Guests may buy tickets when doors open 30 minutes before the scheduled performance time. Ticket availability at the door is limited and contingent on online sales and capacity for each show.
Does purchasing an advance ticket guarantee seating?Purchasing an advance ticket guarantees admission, but does not guarantee seats. Seating is first come, first served.
Does the Poppy accept debit or credit cards?Yes, we accept all major credit cards for ticket sales, concessions, and donations.
What's the refund policy?Refunds are only available in the event of a cancelled performance.
Are there ID or minimum age requirements to enter the event? Is there a discount for children?No, this event is all ages. However, refreshments will be served at the concessions counter. Children 10 and under receive free general admission.
Where are my tickets?Your tickets will be emailed to you as a PDF attachment from Eventbrite on behalf of the Red Poppy, or you may access them in the Eventbrite app. If you do not see your order confirmation in your inbox, make sure to check your junk/spam folder. Enter your email address here if you can’t find them, you’re having trouble printing, or if you’re not sure if you have an Eventbrite account. For all other technical issues, you can find help here.
Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event?You may bring your printed ticket or show your ticket on your phone. There will be no tickets available for pick up at Will Call.
Is it ok if the name on my ticket or registration doesn't match the person who attends?Yes, you’re welcome to purchase tickets for someone else.
VENUE & LOCATION
Is the space ADA accessible?Yes, there is a ramp at our 23rd St entrance.
What kind of seating do you have available?For most of our events we have folding chairs and a few couches available.
What are my transportation/parking options for getting to and from the event?Street parking is available but can be limited around the Red Poppy. We encourage you to take public transportation whenever possible. Several MUNI lines run close to the Red Poppy, and the 24th St. Mission BART station is just under half a mile away.
What can I bring into the event?Guests are welcome to bring food. Beverages are available by suggested donation. We recommend bringing collapsible strollers, if possible.
How can I donate to the Poppy?You may bring cash, check, debit or credit card, or donate online at http://redpoppyarthouse.org/participate/give/.
Where can I grab a bite to eat?Nearby places include El Farolito, Taqueria Vallarta, Basa Seafood Express (sushi), and Farmhouse Kitchen Thai Cuisine. For more options, click here.
How can I contact the organizer with any questions?You can reach us at info@redpoppyarthouse.org or give us a call at (650) 713-5383.