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About the group
Al-Sharq Ensemble is a group of Chicago based musicians who focus on studying and performing Middle Eastern Art Music. The group brings up the work to its highest artistic potential while incorporating ethnomusicological approaches throughout the process of interpretation. The group was established by Issa Boulos in 2001 and has performed at universities, colleges, community events and various other local and national venues.
About the music
Classical Music is sometimes referred to as Music of the Islamic Empire, Art Music or maqam music. It is the aristocratic music of the court and the upper class, which underwent development and modification in the hands of gifted musicians throughout several centuries. Rhythmic and melodic modes grew in number and complexity, and new vocal and instrumental genres arose. In addition, a body of theoretical works grew up, influencing both Islamic and--in some cases--European music. Its later popularization did not alter its intimate and entertaining character. Although this music is characterized by a particular organization of melody and rhythm, while the vocal component predominates over the instrumental and its performance is based on the skill of the individual artist.
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