Music in the Chapel: Makam Baklava

The Music in the Chapel series showcases an eclectic range of performers and local musicians. Immerse yourself in the acoustic and visual charms of Lakewood’s historic Memorial Chapel as we welcome Makam Baklava for this special performance.

Experience the magic of Makam Baklava—where every performance is a celebration of culturally-diverse harmonies and musical excellence. This group of musicians came together a decade ago, led by the talented Nickolai Kolarov and Orhan Ucer, to share the rich musical traditions of Turkey, Bulgaria and the Balkans. The group is inspired by the timeless wisdom of the renowned philosopher and poet Mevlana Celaleddin-i Rumi, embracing the philosophy: “Come join us, whoever you are, you are always welcome here.”  

Group members include: 

Rada Kolarova (vocal) 

Avrora Moussorlieva (vocal) 

Orhan Ucer (vocal, saz, guitar) 

Nickolai Kolarov (cello) 

Hristo Alexiev (clarinet) 

Scott Nieman (oud, bouzouki)

Dan Ryan (bass guitar) 

Tim O’Keefe (percussion, duduk) 

This event takes place in the beautiful and historic Lakewood Memorial Chapel. This stunning building was built in 1910 by architect Harry Wild Jones and is modeled after the Hagia Sofia in Istanbul. It is one of the only examples of Byzantine style chapels in the US, and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Click here for more information on the Lakewood Memorial Chapel.

Signs will be posted directing you to the event location or click here for GPS navigation through Google Maps.

Questions? Call the Lakewood events line at 612-540-5165 or email [email protected].

Yes, all ages are welcome.

Arrive any time after 2 PM before the 3 PM show. Doors open at 2 PM to allow guests ample time to enjoy the art and architecture of Lakewood’s historic Memorial Chapel.

No, printed tickets are not required and you do not need to use the Eventbrite app. We will have a guest list at the door.

Free parking is available along roads inside the cemetery, including reserved spaces for handicap parking near the chapel. There is a Metro Transit bus stop just outside of Lakewood’s front gates at 36th & Hennepin Ave. It is within walking distance from the chapel (1-2 blocks). If you come by bicycle, use the bike racks near the cemetery’s main gates.

Due to the historic nature of this venue, there are limited accessibility accommodations that can be made. Accessibility notices are below:

Parking: Reserved accessible parking spots are available near the Chapel’s entrance, which has a ramp to the front door.

Seating: All seating is in fixed pews with cushions. Behind the pews, there is space for wheelchairs, but it is limited.

Restrooms: Two single-occupancy washrooms are available on the main level. The chapel’s accessible restroom is located on the lower level. Because there is no elevator and the spiral staircase is not accessible for all guests, one can access the lower restroom from behind the building. Please ask staff for assistance with wayfinding.

We apologize for these inconveniences. While we strive to be welcoming to all, there are limitations within this historic space. If you have further concerns about accessibility, please call us at 612-540-5165 or email [email protected].

There is a coat rack available, and you may bring a water bottle. (There is a water dispenser available inside the building, too.) Please do not bring pets, food or drinks other than water.

Host or Publisher Lakewood Cemetery