Umm Kulthum's "Long Songs" are some of the richest pieces of musical repertory in any tradition - 40+ minute vocal pieces of symphonic scope, exploring a range of maqamat and emotional states, with deep themes of passion and heartache.
Few today attempt to sing the full songs - we're making this a kind of open rehearsal/jam/workshop where you can hear us develop a deeper knowledge of the songs, and get to know them better yourself, as we repeat verses and add variations, ...and strive, together with you, for that deeper state of musical ecstasy known as Tarab.

The Umm Kulthum Workshop with Sami Abu Shumays

Presenting: Lissa Faker & Ansaak (in their entirety) Barzakh Cafe 147 Utica Ave, Brooklyn $20

August 4 @ 6pm: Lissa Faker & Ansaak

Featuring: Sami Abu Shumays – vocals Zafer Tawil, Megumi Saruhashi, Insia Malik, Sarah Mueller, Marandi Hostetter – violins Eric Allen – cello Gideon Forbes – nay John Murchison – qanun Brian Prunka – oud Alber Baseel & Johnny Farraj – percussion