The SHARQ Arabic Music Ensemble is composed of Arab Americans. The group specializes in traditional Arabic music, as it was performed for hundreds of years in the royal courts, art houses and concert halls of past Arabic kingdoms. SHARQ maintains this lost tradition and renews it with the vitality of modern musical acumen, perspective and expertise.
SHARQ perform on the original and authentic acoustic instruments. Those instruments include the "Qanun" plucked zither, the "Oud" fretless lute, the "Nay" bamboo flute, the "Keman" Oriental violin and the "Riqq" fish skin tambourine. SHARQ also wears custom traditional outfits with a 21st century adaptation. SHARQ has performed in outdoor festivals, colleges and universities, clubs and concert halls, as well as within the Fleet Boston Celebrity series with the Boston Camerata early music ensemble. SHARQ has a complete verbal presentation that accompanies many of their performances when appropriate.
The musical repertoire consists of suites and songs from the Andalusian period, up until modern Egyptian classical music of the mid 1900's. Although it is classical music, the energy level is high due to aggressive percussion and imaginative instrumental improvisation. SHARQ religiously employs the Arabic musical system of "Maqam", a microtonal modal system that has 22 untempered notes per octave and implicit modulations. These extra notes invoke the mystical and intoxicating effects of the music. Plus, the entire band sings chorus along with the lead vocalist, creating a joyously full sound.
SHARQ was founded in 1998 by Egyptian percussionist KARIM NAGI. In 2002 the ensemble added Syrian oudist and musical arranger Kareem Roustom. The ensemble has performed all over the USA in concert halls and festivals. In those past 8 years SHARQ has also performed in numerous schools and universities as part of an education initiative. In an era of political strife and international antagonisms, knowledge of Arabic music and the arts has never been more important. People must learn about the cultural heritage of the Arabs, in order to maintain harmony and reduce the fear that comes with unfamiliarity. Music is a cultural bridge that can help people of all communities understand and appreciate each other. SHARQ provides a view into the rich and artistic background of the Arab world, performed by Arab Americans.
