Tzidia is a San Diego-based band made up of friends who previously performed together with the groups Trio Zheni, Eastern Exposure, and Dromia. Our name reflects these earlier associations. We play folk dance music primarily from the Balkans and surrounding areas, plus Scandinavia. We are: Marie Hayes (vocals), Paul Johnson (violin), Mary Marshall (percussion), Mary Ann Downs Tanaka (vocals and tambura), and Dan Ziagos (accordion).

Kriss Larson formed the Interfolk Band in 1983, first playing at Veselo at their venue in Anaheim. From the beginning, the plan was to not be too specialized, and play across the broad range of Euro-American folk dance traditions.

Besides Balkan, we have been extensively involved in Scandinavian dancing, including performing at Finnish festivals. In addition, we have done German, English Country, Polish, and Contra Dance, and even early Californio rancho dancing. Playing for dancers is different than a listening audience, and we all particularly enjoy that experience.

ZIMZALA is an international folk dance band dedicated to playing the music to international folk dancers’ favorite international dances, keeping the music infectiously danceable while putting our own unique twist on the music, playing often with humor and always with enthusiasm! We can come with our own sound and lighting equipment … and we can always do a quick teach on any dances you might not know!

Bob Altman:
keyboards and vocals (rdaltmann@gmail.com – 714-313-2933)

Lee Otterholt:
vocals and mandolin (leeotterholt@yahoo.com – 949-933-6294)

Marcella Lawson:
vocals, guitar, ukulele and flute

Lisa Taylor:
vocals, guitar, ukulele

Errol Strelnikof:
drums

Sable Cantus:
bass and vocals