The world of fiddlers in Romania has produced many legendary figures over time, but few managed to reach the popularity and respect enjoyed by Fărâmiță Lambru. Considered one of the most renowned accordionists the country has ever had, Lambru became famous not only for his musical talent, but also for his friendship with the inimitable Maria Tănase, the artist who changed his destiny and transformed him into a prominent figure of the Romanian stage.

Childhood and first encounters with music

His story is one of life and art, of talent and sacrifice, but also of gratitude towards those who stood by him. From a 24-year-old Roma youth with a worn-out accordion and a dream, Fărâmiță Lambru became a name applauded both in Romania and abroad.

Fărâmiță Lambru was born on September 15, 1927, into a Roma family of fiddlers for whom music was not only a tradition, but also a way of life. Unlike other artists who took on stage names, “Fărâmiță” was his real family name, worn with pride. His father, Tudor Fărâmiță, was the first to put an accordion in his hands, becoming both his teacher and artistic role model.

From early childhood, Lambru showed remarkable talent, mastering the instrument with natural ease. What set him apart was not only his technique, but also the sensitivity with which he conveyed emotion through every note. This ability would later make him stand out when destiny brought him face to face with Maria Tănase.

The debut in the army and first stage experiences

His actual artistic debut came in 1949, during his military service. It was there that he first played in a military band, discovering what it meant to make music on stage, in front of an audience. Though it was only the beginning, those years gave him the confidence and experience he needed to pursue a career in music.

The post-war years were not easy, but for a talented fiddler there were always taverns, restaurants, and shows in need of music. The young Lambru started to become known in Bucharest circles, but his true chance would only come a few years later, when he met Maria Tănase on the stage of the Teatrul de Estradă (Variety Theatre).

The providential meeting with Maria Tănase

The moment that changed his destiny is movingly described in Maria Roșca’s book Maria Tănase. Fărâmiță introduced himself simply, with modesty: “Sărut mâna, doamna, eu sunt Fărâmiță Lambru” (“I kiss your hand, madam, I am Fărâmiță Lambru”). Maria Tănase, looking for a new instrumentalist at that time, curiously eyed the young man with tired eyes and curly hair.

Lambru lifted his Hohner accordion with its broken bellows and began to play. Despite the imperfect condition of the instrument, the sound carried an emotion so powerful that it immediately convinced the great artist. 

They performed together the song Asta iarna era iarna (“Last winter was winter”), and at the end Maria burst into laughter, joking: “Măi Fărâmiță, the draft from your accordion is chilling me!” Beyond the joke, Tănase had sensed a genuine talent in front of her, one she decided to “adopt” and guide.

Rising to fame alongside the “Nightingale”

From that day on, Lambru’s path changed dramatically. Maria Tănase made him her favorite accordionist and took him along to hundreds of shows across the country and abroad. Together they performed in France, Italy, and Germany, taking Romanian folk music to prestigious stages and charming audiences everywhere.

Parallel to these tours, Fărâmiță also played in the most famous taverns of Bucharest, where he was adored by lovers of fiddlers’ music. With Maria Tănase’s help, he secured a position at the “Constantin Tănase” Theatre, where he became a soloist and conductor of the folk orchestra. 

Their relationship was not only professional, but also deeply personal: Maria Tănase was his wedding witness and even his godmother, proof of the strong and sincere bond between them.

Discography and cinema debut

The year 1962 marked another important step in his career: his first recordings at the Electrecord record label. These consolidated his reputation and allowed him to reach those who could not hear him live in concerts or taverns.

The premature death of Maria Tănase in 1963 was a devastating blow for Lambru, who lost not only a stage partner but also a dear friend. Even so, he carried on with his career and had the chance to enter the world of cinema. In 1967, he was invited to play the role of the famous fiddler Zavaidoc in the musical Groapa (“The Pit”), a film that showcased both his musical talent and charisma.

Four years later, in 1971, he also appeared in the film Facerea lumii (“The Creation of the World”), alongside renowned actors such as Toma Caragiu and Colea Răutu. Thus, Lambru succeeded in expanding his artistic presence beyond music, gaining recognition in Romanian cinema as well.

Official recognition and career peak

For his activity at the “Constantin Tănase” Theatre, Fărâmiță Lambru was awarded in 1968 the medal “Cultural Merit Order,” fifth class. This was an official recognition of his talent and his contribution to Romanian musical culture.

The public loved him for the virtuosity with which he mastered the accordion and for the energy he transmitted at every performance. He could make the audience stand up, laugh, cry, or dance—qualities that turned him into a complete artist whose charm never faded.

A life cut short by illness

Unfortunately, Lambru’s life was overshadowed by health issues. A diabetic and heavy smoker, he often ignored the signs of illness. He never spared himself and never turned down invitations to concerts, weddings, or baptisms. This total dedication to the public gradually consumed him, and tuberculosis, combined with his other ailments, brought his end.

After a long suffering, Fărâmiță Lambru passed away in 1974, at only 47 years old. He was buried in the “Izvorul Nou” cemetery in Bucharest, leaving behind a musical legacy and an impressive life story.

The legacy of a unique fiddler

Fărâmiță Lambru remains a symbol of Romanian fiddler music and one of the most beloved accordionists of his generation. His story is inseparably linked to that of Maria Tănase, the “Nightingale” who discovered him and helped him follow his destiny. Together they created unforgettable moments, carried Romanian folklore abroad, and showed the world the beauty of our music.

If Maria Tănase often said that music must be sung with the soul, Lambru embodied this philosophy of life. Every note, every chord from his accordion conveyed a strong emotion, a vibration that reached directly into the hearts of his listeners.

Although his life ended far too early, Fărâmiță Lambru remains in collective memory not only as “Maria Tănase’s accordionist,” but also as an authentic artist who left his mark on Romanian music. His life is proof that talent, when it meets the right people and favorable circumstances, can transform destinies and create legends.

We also recommend: Everything You Didn’t Know About Maria Tănase, the “Magic Bird of Romanian Music.” Untold Stories About the Great Artist