"Powerfully atmospheric... Revolutionary"
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Songlines Magazine
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Songlines Magazine
Rehearsal snippets!
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Pioneering Oxford Maqam comprises vocalists and musicians who are renowned experts in their field ofEgyptian music of the 19th and 20th centuries. They first met fifteen years ago, and now regularly sell out venues both at home and internationally, taking their album tour from London's Kings Place to the Kuwait Opera House. Their self-produced album, described as ‘revolutionary’ by Songlines magazine, used recording techniques from over one hundred years ago. Offering fresh and entertaining recreations, they have captured the imaginations of UK, Europe and Middle Eastern audiences alike. Whilst the Arabic music scene is filled with innovators of contemporary popular music, Oxford Maqam are innovators of classical Arabic music. Their revival of historical works remains an original process, and their concerts offer a rare opportunity to experience live renditions of a music steeped in Arab heritage. Their other venture, 'Oxford Maqam Big Band' combines takht and top UK jazz musicians to present a selection of mid-20th century Egyptian classics whose originals have also been lost. Amongst their pioneering concerts were the first UK performances of operettas Majnun Layla and Lahn Al-Wafa. |