Details

Immersion in the pleasure and joy of experiencing great classical Arab music.

Tarab Ensemble was founded in 2019 by artists from Palestine, Lebanon, Syria and Egypt. ‘Tarab’ is an Arabic word that, while difficult to translate, encapsulates the pleasure and joy one gets from great, often classical Arab music. In his book Making Music in the Arab World, Dr AJ Racy said, ‘[in] Arab culture, the merger between music and emotional transformation is epitomised by the concept of Tarab, which may not have an exact equivalent in Western languages.’

About the concert

Their performance in Primrose Potter Salon presents instrumental Arabic music at immense scale. The ensemble has evolved to be Australia’s largest group dedicated to instrumental classical Arabic music. Although the group was founded by multi-faith Arabic speaking musicians, the vision of the ensemble has expanded to encompass non-Arab musicians from Australia, Iran, Germany, Armenia and Venezuela.

A testimony of the beauty, richness and diversity of Tarab and its ability to attract people from different cultures. A truly unforgettable musical experience with the power to stir powerful emotions.

Praise for Tarab Ensemble

‘What a joy! When Tarab Ensemble joined me in the studio I was swept away by their rich, warm sound on what was an otherwise chilly Victorian morning. My regional audience clearly enjoyed the mix of classical and modern Arabian music but, more importantly, the skill and professionalism of Tarab’s live performance. I’d love to find an excuse to do it again.’ ABC Radio

COVID Safety

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Artists

Sarah McDonald flute
Greg Khaderian saxophone
Vahideh Eisaei qanoun
Yousef Alreemawi organ
Michael Currie double bass
Husam Karam oud
Khajak Khachigian guitar
Rayan Aridi percussion
Lena Emmanuel voice
Dr Ali Abdallah mentor

Guest Artists
Setareh Nematullahi tar
Farah Beani poetry