July 18 “Modon Al Narjess” Maestro Naseer Shamma and world music master soloists Maestro Naseer Shamma and his 14 master soloists from around the world, each a virtuoso on their instrument, they come together under his direction on Oud, in an exceptional dialogue of culture promoting a powerful message of peace through diverse musical styles that reflect the richness of global cultures.

 

Maestro Naseer Shamma, is an Iraqi Master Oud player born in 1963, graduated from the Institute of Music Studies in Baghdad in 1987. He holds a PhD in Musical Philosophy and has received over 60 awards throughout his career, including the Royal British Academy Award and honors from the Iraqi artist syndicate. Shamma has performed internationally, establishing himself as a leading figure in the music scene and releasing over sixty compositions.

 

Advancing Music — in 1999, Shamma founded the Arab Oud House in Cairo to advance Oud education, which has since expanded to Abu Dhabi, Alexandria, and Baghdad. Graduates perform globally, bridging Arab musical culture with Western audiences. Shamma has collaborated with various orchestras and artists, enhancing the profile of Arab music worldwide.

 

Shamma prioritizes humanitarian efforts, promoting peace through projects which aid vulnerable children, supporting millions of refugees. He has received numerous humanitarians’ awards and serves as a UNESCO Artist for Peace and goodwill ambassador for the International Red Crescent and Red Cross Societies.

 

Ali Ghamsary (Tar): An acclaimed Iranian musician and educator, Ghamsary is known for his expertise in the Persian tar. He founded several ensembles, released notable albums, and is a professor at the University of Tehran. His recent project, The Iranian Tar, explores regional musical traditions, and he was nominated for the International Bravo Award in 2024.

 

 

Ali Madbouh (Nay): A Lebanese musician celebrated for his mastery of the nay and mizmar, Madbouh blends classical Arabic music with modern styles. He actively promotes Lebanese music through performances and social media, collaborating with various artists and engaging a global audience.

 

 

 

 

Amrat Hussain (Tabla): An Indian tabla player from a musical family, Hussain has performed worldwide and collaborated with renowned artists. He teaches tabla in France and has received prestigious awards for his contributions to Indian classical music.

 

 

 

 

Angela Boutros (Piano): A Syrian-Belgian film composer and pianist, Boutros combines Arabic music with modern elements. She has performed at major venues and scored nominated films, and is part of the Ramal Ensemble, which fuses traditional and contemporary music.

 

Gautama del Campo (Saxophone): A Spanish saxophonist known for blending flamenco and jazz, del Campo has collaborated with various artists and won awards for his musicianship. His discography showcases his innovative approach to music.

 

 

 

Hussein Zahawy (Daf): A Kurdish-British percussionist, Zahawy excels in playing the daf and has a rich background in Kurdish music. As the artistic director of Nishtiman, he promotes Kurdish musical heritage globally through performances and recordings.

 

Jorge Bezerra (Brazilian Drums): A Brazilian percussionist, Bezerra fuses Afro-Brazilian rhythms with jazz and electronic music. He has collaborated with jazz legends and won a Grammy Award, known for his innovative musical style.

 

 

 

 

Manuel Sierra (Bass): A multicultural musician from Spain, Sierra explores various genres and blends diverse musical traditions in his work, showcasing a
creative and dynamic approach to music.

 

 

 

 

Mohamed Gharbi (Violin): A Tunisian violinist, Gharbi is recognized for his mastery of both Western classical and Arabic music. He performs with his brother and has captivated audiences with his unique blend of musical influences.

 

Nasir Aziz (Sitar): An accomplished Afghan sitar player, Aziz has a rich musical background and has taught music in various countries. He is known for his performances and contributions to Afghan music.

 

 

 

 

 

Rainer Maria Nero (Guitar): An Austrian-Polish guitarist, Nero combines classical guitar with flamenco rhythms. He has performed internationally and is dedicated to education, conducting masterclasses to inspire future musicians.

 

 

Dr. Maria Makhlouf (Qanun): is a Lebanese music education professor specializing in Arabic and traditional Lebanese music. She invented the miniature qanun “Minikanun,” patented in 2015, and teaches at the Lebanese National Conservatory, contributing significantly to Lebanon’s academic and professional music scene.

 

 

 

These musicians represent a diverse array of cultural backgrounds and musical traditions, contributing significantly to the global music scene.