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 (in their entirety): Gholobt Asaleh - Zahra al Zubaidi & Arouh li Meen - Sami Abu Shumays

Barzakh Cafe 147 Utica Ave, Brooklyn $20

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