Cal Performances | World Stage | Simon Shaheen Aswat (Voices) Celebrating the Golden Age of Arab Music

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Simon Shaheen
Aswat (Voices)
Celebrating the Golden Age of Arab Music

The period from the 1920s to the 1950s was a golden age of song throughout the Arab world, when many of the region's greatest vocalists and composers reached unprecedented heights of artistry and stardom. Now Simon Shaheen, one of today's leading Arab composers and multi-instrumentalists, recreates this magical era, working with a traditional orchestra and some of the leading singers in the Arab world today. Shaheen presents an evening of classic melodies, soul-stirring voices, lush orchestral arrangements, and the best film footage available of the great singers of the time, creating a multimedia experience of historical depth and lasting emotional impact.

In association with the Arab Cultural & Community Center

Program Notes
Program notes are available approximately one week before the performance.

Audio Clips
( Real One Player or Windows Media Player)

Waving Sands *

Dance Mediterrania *

Saraab *

Fantasie For Oud & String Quartet *

* Clips listed here are representative of the artists, but may be different than what are being played as part of the Cal Performances program

Video Clips
( Windows Media Player)

Video discussion with Simon Shaheen about the program concept for Aswat (Voices), including film footage from The Golden Age