An impressive lineup of five trios, performing in a wide range of styles and featuring diverse combinations of instruments, is at the center of the Pierre Boulez Saal’s Arabic Music Days. Extended this season from three to five days, the program has once again been curated by Iraqi oud virtuoso Naseer Shamma, whose concert on March 4 will also celebrate the fifth anniversary of the hall’s opening. A number of digital offerings complement the musical program: works by visual artists Jaber Alwan (Iraq) and Nja Mahdaoui (Tunisia) will be shown in an online exhibition. In a specially produced video presentation, Omani poet Saif al-Rahbi will read from his works. Tunisian director Kaouther Ben Hania’s Oscar-nominated film The Man Who Sold His Skin will be available for streaming.

Unfortunately, due to travel and visa issues, Naseer Shamma could not come to Berlin and will not be able to perform tonight. Thankfully, ney virtuoso Hany Elbadry and percussionist Firat Fadhil, who were both heard earlier this week as part of the Arabic Music Days, and vocalist Khater Dawa have agreed to join the members of the Naseer Shamma Trio for this performance.

Principal Partner: Abu Dhabi Festival 2022