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By Jill Yesko , University Relations
Contact (336) 334-3890
Posted:4-10-07
GREENSBORO, N.C. – Music from the far corners of the Arab world will be performed at a free concert on Thursday, April 26, at 7:30 p.m. in the Recital Hall of the School of Music at UNCG.
Dr. A.J. Racy, professor of Ethnomusicology at the University of California at Los Angeles, and Souhail Kaspar, a highly acclaimed performer on Near Eastern percussion instruments, will lead the audience through an exciting journey across the world of Near Eastern Arab music.
Performing on traditional instruments such as the nay, a reed-flute and the buzuq, a long-necked fretted flute, the concert features compositions and improvisations by Racy and a rich display of tone colors and technical virtuosity by these two renowned artists.
Born in Lebanon, Racy comes from a well-known family of artists, scholars and academics. Internationally recognized for his musicianship, Racy is the author of “Making Music in the Arab World,” published by Cambridge University Press. He has performed in venues such as Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center and the Hollywood Bowl.
Racy is the recipient of numerous honors for his outstanding artistry and his work toward greater intercultural understanding and cooperation.
Kaspar received his early music training in Syria. Now based in Los Angeles, he has performed in major Middle Eastern venues in the U.S. and abroad. He has also recorded on a number of albums, including “Khaliji,” featuring compositions from the Arab Gulf region, and “Awzan,” which illustrates various Arab rhythmic modes.
For more information, contact Dr. Gavin Douglas in the School of Music, at (336) 334-5473.
University Relations
Location: 500 Forest Street
Mailing Address: PO Box 26170, Greensboro, NC 27402-6170
Telephone:336.334.3783
Fax:336.334.4602