Memories, moments, momentum _{by Madelaine Empson}

Wellington-based ensemble Mehana is celebrating 10 years of bringing the rich sounds of the Balkans to Aotearoa listeners. Drawing inspiration from Balkan folk, Roma, Sevdah, and other Eastern European musical traditions, the band performs everything from haunting violin laments to infectious, foot-stomping dance tunes.

As violinist Elisabeth Auchinvole says, “There is always a sense of excitement and mystery when we come together to play Balkan music. When the audience starts dancing, the music transforms into movement and the energy grows.” Join the swirling momentum when Mehana plays Vogelmorn Upstairs for the first time on the 17^th of July and read on for our interview with the band.

Congratulations on 10 years of Mehana! Please tell me about some of your favourite moments together over that time.

Singer Iva Sajdl: From playing to those beautiful crowds at Gardens Magic, CubaDupa, and Wellington Folk Festival to crazy Paterson house parties, song recordings, and private weddings – we’ve been fortunate to share many memorable moments. It’s hard to believe it’s been a whole decade and we are incredibly thankful to all our fans and friends... bring on another 10 years of music and dance!

Elisabeth: Walking home after being invited into the band, I remember thinking I should take each step carefully so I didn’t disturb this unexpected bit of good fortune.

Learning tunes by ear from the other band members and listening to wonderful recordings from the 70s, trying to discover how the music could come together.

Trying a dance belt idea, matching body rhythms with the drumbeat – and being given the freedom to just experiment.

Standing in the big tent at CubaDupa as other brass bands walked towards the stage. Someone asked, ‘What shall we do?’ The answer came: ‘We welcome them.’ And everyone started playing like there was no tomorrow…

I’m constantly inspired by the skill, patience, and passion of the other Mehana musicians and the rich traditions behind this music.

Can you describe the atmosphere when you come together to make and perform Balkan music?

Accordion player Misha Mojic: We are all passionate about this music. Many of our band members grew up in the Balkans, so playing these songs is a way of reconnecting with the sounds, rhythms, and memories of our childhoods. At the same time, we love sharing these traditions with audiences in New Zealand, where Balkan music has found a warm following. Our performances bring together people from many backgrounds – some familiar with the music and others discovering it for the first time. Whether they come to dance, listen, or simply enjoy the atmosphere, they help create the vibrant energy that makes every performance special.

What are you most looking forward to about the upcoming celebration gig?

Singer and guitarist Sveta Andic: We’re looking forward to performing for an audience that appreciates diverse musical traditions and engages with artists in an open and genuine way. That inspires us to bring our very best to the stage.