The success of the recent music jams hosted by the Martha’s Vineyard Hebrew Center have provided proof positive that the Island loves klezmer music. So it makes sense that this weekend, the center will ramp up the game with instruction, dancing and performance, with the guidance and expertise of the Strauss/Warschauer Duo, a pair of musicians and teachers of international renown, specializing in klezmer and Yiddish music and dance.

Deborah Strauss plays violin and accordion, and is an accomplished dancer. Her musical partner, Jeff Warschauer, plays guitar and mandolin. Both are excellent singers, and they focus their talents on both traditional Yiddish instrumental and vocal pieces, as well as original works that blend the principles of this ancient genre with contemporary aesthetics and styles.

Tonight, the pair will play klezmer melodies, Yiddish songs and wordless instrumental pieces called nigunim at the center’s Shabbat service, accompanied by Island musicians. Then on Sunday, May 30, at 10 a.m. the Duo will present a free public workshop, entitled Zingendik! Tantsndik! Shpilndik! (Sing! Dance! Play): Group and Individual Klezmer and Yiddish Song Coaching. The workshop is designed to teach Eastern European Yiddish instrumental and vocal music in a way that is useful for experts and amateurs alike. Sunday evening at 7 p.m., the weekend culminates with a concert and Yiddish dance party, In My Garden: Yiddish Songs and Music of Love and Rejoicing.

All are welcome, and the events are free. The Hebrew Center is located at 130 Center street, Vineyard Haven. For details, call 508-693-0745.