Music Before 1800 presents Palestine Before 1800 – Simon Shaheen & Friends
$15-$60 ($5-$55 senior)
- Simon Shaheen, oud & violin
- Firas Zreik, qanun
- Tareq Rantisi, percussion
- Layan Hawila, voice
- Rami Abuolaya, nay
Note: This program replaces the duo Sabîl with Vincent Sègal, who are unable to be with us due to visa insecurity resulting both from the ongoing war in the Middle East, and the U.S. election.
For this special concert celebrating authentic Palestinian music, Palestinian oud virtuoso Simon Shaheen is joined by long-time collaborators on traditional instruments. The program will include instrumental and vocal forms such as the "Qasida" (classical Arabic composed poetry), the "Muwashshah" (a poetic form set to music that goes back to the Andalusian time in Spain), "Sama'i" (an instrumental four-part form utilizing the authentic 10/8 meter), and "Tahmila" (an instrumental form with metric improvisation in call-and-response between solo and ensemble). Additionally, the ensemble will present a medley of Palestinian folk music and improvisation that is practiced in Syria, Palestine, and Lebanon.
About Simon Shaheen, oud & violin
Born in the village of Tarshiha in the Galilee, Palestinian oud virtuoso Simon Shaheen is one of the most significant Arab musicians touring today. His soaring technique has dazzled audiences for decades in traditional music as well as western and jazz compositions. Shaheen's unique contribution to traditional Arabic music was recognized by a prestigious National Heritage Award given at The White House.
https://www.youtube.com/@simonshaheenofficial