Tarab Ensemble – In the Presence of Absence
![Tarab Ensemble Tarab Ensemble](https://mrc-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/assets/Image/338779-fitandcrop-717x437.jpg)
Presented by Melbourne Recital Centre & Tarab Ensemble
Details
Immerse yourself in the rich musical styles of the Arab world.
Tarab is an Arabic word that, while difficult to translate, embodies the deep pleasure and joy derived from classical Arab music. Established in 2019 by Palestinian-Australian musician Yousef Alreemawai, Tarab Ensemble emerged from a need to amplify classical Arab music in Victoria. Since then, it has evolved into Australia’s premier and most expansive collective dedicated to Arab musical traditions, welcoming musicians from diverse backgrounds worldwide.
Drawing inspiration from the late Palestinian poet Mahmoud Darwish’s collection, ‘In the Presence of Absence,’ Tarab Ensemble invites listeners to step into a liminal space. Weaving together history, culture, and art, this poignant work also offers reflections on Judaism, Christianity, pre-Islamic cultures, and colonial legacies. An artistic response to tumultuous times, Tarab Ensemble strives to bridge the divide amidst conflicting identities, sects, politics, and ideologies. Through a vibrant tapestry of Arab musical styles, Tarab Ensemble’s performances are a testament to the power of music in fostering empathy and unity in this unmissable Intimate Salon Experience.
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.’ – ABC Statewide Mornings
Caring for Our Community
Melbourne Recital Centre is committed to the safety of our artists, staff and patrons. A range of public health, hygiene and physical distancing measures are currently in place. Click here to learn more.
Artists
Yousef Alreemawi organ
Michael Currie double bass
Sarah McDonald flute
Krikor Khaderian saxophone
Khajak Khachigian guitar
Bassam Muneer oud
Nasser Ammar percussion
Chiharu Hotta nay
Dr Ali Abdullah mentor
Program
Rawhi al-Khammash
Samaei Nahawand (Iraq & Palestine)
Muhammad el-Mogi
The Coffeecup Reader (Egypt, Classical)
Omar el-Batsh
Aleppo (Syria)
Muhammad Abdel-Wahab
Footsteps (Egypt)
Omer Faruk Tekbilek
Attributes of God (Sufi)
Dweller of the Night
Walid Ghulmiyyeh (Lebanon)
Longa Style
Chahinaz
Abdel Rabb Idris
If there was one night remaining (Yemen & Saudi Arabia)
Zakariyya Ahmad
Waiting for you (Egypt)
Elhadi Eljoueini
Lamouni (Tunisia)
Muhammad Wardi
Elegance (Sudan)
Rahbani brothers
That Land (Andalusi)
Muhammad el-Mogi
Contentment and Light (Islamic)
Series
This production is part of the following series:
Intimate Salon Experiences 2024
Venue
Booking Information
Saturday 6 July 2024 7pm
Duration: 1 hour 15 mins (no interval) Please note, running times are approximate and subject to change.
Tickets
Standard $50 ($40 Concession)
A Transaction Fee between $4 and $8.50 applies to orders made online and by phone. Delivery Fees may also apply.
A ticket limit of four is in place online to ensure fair ticket access for all. Want to bring a bigger party? Call our Box Office during business hours on (03) 9699 3333 to book.