For many in the St. Louis Jewish community, the term Ladino might be unfamiliar—but it shouldn’t be. This centuries-old language, a blend of medieval Spanish, Hebrew and other influences from across the Mediterranean, once thrived among Sephardic Jews. Today, Ladino’s presence has faded, but through music, its spirit lives on. Enter Nani Vazana, an internationally acclaimed artist who has made it her mission to keep Ladino’s hauntingly beautiful melodies alive.
A musical bridge between past and present
Nani’s upcoming performance in St. Louis isn’t just a concert—it’s a journey through time. Ladino music carries the voices of Sephardic Jews who were expelled from Spain in 1492, preserving their traditions in song. The melodies draw from Spanish, Middle Eastern, and North African influences, creating a sound that is both deeply nostalgic and strikingly contemporary. Nani’s interpretations fuse traditional Ladino lyrics with modern instrumentation, offering something fresh for new listeners while honoring the genre’s roots.
In an recent interview with The Jerusalem Post, Nani reflected on her approach to Ladino music, saying, “I want the language to survive, and I want the music to thrive, not as an ancient historical form but as something vibrant and contemporary.”
Who is Nani?
Born in Israel to a Moroccan family, Nani—also known as Noam Vazana—has emerged as one of the leading voices in the revival of Ladino music. Her performances have captivated audiences worldwide, from Carnegie Hall to international festivals, where she breathes new life into songs that might otherwise be lost to time. Through her work, Nani is more than a musician—she’s a cultural preservationist, ensuring that Sephardic musical heritage is not only remembered but continues to evolve.
Her personal journey with Ladino began in childhood, when her grandmother sang Ladino songs to her in secret. “My father didn’t let us speak Ladino, so I only spoke it to my grandmother when we were alone,” Nani told Georgia Straight, a Vancouver music magazine. “But she passed away when I was 12, so I lost that connection.” Years later, she visited Morocco and unexpectedly heard a familiar tune on the street—a Ladino song her grandmother had sung. That moment reignited her passion for the language and its music.
Why this matters to St. Louis’ Jewish community
While Ashkenazi traditions dominate much of Jewish life in the U.S., Sephardic culture holds a significant but often overlooked place in Jewish history. Ladino music serves as a reminder of the diversity within Jewish heritage. For St. Louisans who may not have grown up with these melodies, this is a rare opportunity to experience the rich, multicultural history of Jewish music beyond the familiar sounds of klezmer or Hebrew liturgical tunes.
Nani believes Ladino still has a place in modern culture, saying, “If you write a piece from your own perspective, it becomes not only more authentic, but also real art. You’re not copying something, so everything you’re doing happens from point zero.”
Event Details
- What: Nani: A Journey Through Ladino Music
- When: March 7
- Where: Kirkwood Performing Arts Center
- Tickets: Purchase at Metrotix
Whether you have Sephardic roots or are simply curious about Jewish music beyond the usual staples, Nani’s performance promises an evening of discovery and connection. Ladino may no longer be spoken widely, but through artists like Nani, its legacy continues to sing.
