Classical guitarist Zoltan Szekely, who was born in Romania and raised in Hungary, founded the Zoltan Orkestar in 2006. Zoltan’s style is heavily influenced by both traditional Hungarian folk music and American classical jazz. Zoltan plays the guikulele, an instrument of his own devise, combining a guitar with a ukulele, with a bicycle horn, cymbal and zill thrown in for good measure. Both musicians and music lovers alike recognize his talent and passion.
Joining Zoltan is accordionist/keyboardist/percussionist Issa Malluf, a favorite of belly dancers and Afro-European drum fans. Issa has played with Rahim Al-Haj and is well known throughout the state for his impressive percussion skills. He has recorded three solo albums and composed the music for A Pearl Fantasy, a theatrical production of music and dance.
Bassist Lakesha Lohman is a multi-instrumentalist and a 2006 graduate of Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA. She has performed in several ensembles and student projects, which include credits on violin, clarinet, viola and piano. In addition to being a musical Jill of all trades, Lakesha can bench press twice her own weight.
Raised by coyotes in the Albuquerque wilderness, percussionist Jeff Romaniuk rounds out the Orkestar. Having previously performed with many local and national bands, including the Eric McFadden Trio and Chris Dracup, Jeff is also an avid stamp collector and world-class snake milker.
The Zoltan Orkestar performs original songs in addition to Zoltanized standards and Hungarian folk songs. Catch them live at several Albuquerque bars and restaurants, including Monte Vista Fire Station, Nob Hill Bar & Grill, Imbibe Cigar Lounge and Scalo Il Bar and at the Mineshaft Tavern in Madrid.Good Green
