With musical bonds and friendships stretching back into early childhood, ZRI formed under the direction of clarinettist Ben Harlan. The quintet takes its name from the Red Hedgehog Tavern in Vienna, Zum Roten Igel, where folk, including Schubert and Brahms, would go and hear the Gypsies play. Following launch concerts in 2011 ZRI has toured the UK extensively with its unique versions of both the Brahms and Schubert quintets, releasing its debut disc in 2014. Alongside other major festivals, ZRI have performed at Henley, York, Guildford International, Swaledale and Kings Place. In addition to their Brahms and Schubert programmes ZRI has its Cellar Sessions, a fiery selection of classical and Gypsy favourites as might have been heard at the eponymous Red Hedgehog Tavern. ZRI also tours its own live score to Charlie Chaplin’s early classic ‘The Adventurer’, and made its debut performance of Janacek’s Kreutzer Sonata on Swiss national radio.

In Cafe Danube, ZRI celebrates the famous works of some of the 19th-century's most revered composers, reimagining them with new arrangements and instrumentation. Songs that once echoed down the Danube are reborn with ZRIs signature Romani twist, leading us on a winding and exhilarating journey from Vienna to Odessa. With a diverse array of instruments, including the clarinet, bass clarinet, tenor sax, cello, baritone, violin, mandolin, santouri and accordion, ZRI breathes new life into classic compositions. Their vibrant, polished and passionate performances are infused with the bands irrepressible Romani stylings, adding a unique flavour to these proven musical recipes.

★★★★★ “Vivid, vibrant and provocative…” – The Scotsman

“A fascinating modern take on western classical traditions…” – World Music Central

“These versions are delicate and made with great respect for the originals…” – Jazz Quad