Ziryab Trio

Named after a ninth century singer, musician and composer in Haroun Al-Rashid's court in Baghdad, the Ziryab Trio has continued to explore the Arabic and Turkish music of the 19th and 20th centuries. Performing on oud, violin, and percussion, the group has resurrected the compositions of such influential songwriters as Riad Al-Sunbati, Tanburi Jemil Bey, and Muhammed Al-Qasabji. The Ziryab Trio represents the joint efforts of musicians from the multi-ethnic instrumental ensemble Bustan Abraham, Taiseer Elias, Nassim Dakwar, and Zohar Fresco. One of the Middle East's leading oud players, Elias had previously formed the Orchestra of the Classical Arab World. Violinist Dakwar, who established a musical conservatory in the Arab village of Tarshiha, also serves as principal violinist for the Nazareth Orchestra of Classical Arab Music. Percussionist Fresco, the son of Turkish-Jewish parents, is a much-in-demand session player and has recorded with numerous Israeli artists including vocalist Noa. ~ Craig Harris