Join us for an afternoon of music performed by the Riwaya Ensemble, a New York-based contemporary music group dedicated to celebrating the rich heritage and artistic innovation of Middle Eastern classical music.
Riwaya Ensemble is excited to feature Kareem Roustom's Palestinian Songs and Dances once again, which will still be one of the first-ever performances of this remarkable work. The concert will also highlight new compositions from renowned Arab composers Kinan Azmeh and Bushra El-Turk.
The program will explore themes of identity, heritage, and community, showcasing contemporary works by talented Arab artists. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience a vibrant celebration of music and community!
Ensemble Bio
Riwaya Ensemble is a New York-based contemporary music ensemble that celebrates the rich heritage and artistic innovation of contemporary Middle Eastern classical music. Our name, “Riwaya”, meaning “narration” or “story” in Arabic, embodies our mission as storytellers through music. We strive to be a catalyst for cultural exploration and understanding by showcasing the diverse voices of Middle Eastern composers.
As dedicated contemporary-classical musicians, Riwaya Ensemble aims to bridge traditions and create a harmonious dialogue between past and present, fostering an environment of artistic excellence and cross-cultural exchange. A composer-led ensemble, our featured composers play a pivotal role in driving the artistic and collaborative process in the preparation of their music.
Founded in October 2023, Riwaya Ensemble has performed at esteemed venues such as the CUNY Graduate Center, DiMenna Center for Classical Music, and the Palestine Museum US. In addition to our concert performances, we have proudly supported humanitarian efforts, performing benefit concerts for Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders) and SEAL (Social and Economic Action for Lebanon) in collaboration with Egyptian-American Neo-Soul artist Felukah. Through our music, we aim to inspire connection, dialogue, and a deeper appreciation for the richness of Middle Eastern culture.
Riwaya Ensemble is grateful for generous support from Chamber Music America, the CUNY Graduate Center, and Humanities New York.
Performers
Amer Hasan, clarinet
Shaleah Feinstein & Insia Malik, violin
Noémie Chemali, viola
Raffi Boden, cello
Program
Kinan Azmeh (b. 1976)
The Fence, the Rooftop, and the Distant Sea for clarinet and cello (2016/2017)
Prologue
Amonite
Monologue
Dance
Epilogue
Sami Seif (b. 1998)
Syriac Fugato 2 for violin and viola (2022)
Bushra El-Turk (b. 1982)
Saffron Dusk for string quartet (2021)
Kareem Roustom (b. 1971)
Palestinian Songs and Dances for clarinet, string quartet, and audio playback (2024)
1. Climbers - يا ﯾطﺎﻟﻌﯿﻦ اﻟﺠﺒل
2. Blessed Are Your Wedding Garments – اﻟﻤﻠﺒﻮس ﺎرك
3. Dance of the Mijwiz - ﻗرﺺ اﻟﻤﺠﻮز
4. Three Village Wedding Songs
The chiming bracelet – سوار الرنين
Register the bride’s name, oh judge – ﺳﺠﻞ يا ﻗﺎﺿﻲ ﺳﺠﻞ
God bless the henna painter - يا محني العرﻮس