POSTPONED Ramadaniyyat: Naïssam Jalal and Hazem Shaheen

Flutist and vocalist Naïssam Jalal and oud master Hazem Shaheen have been friends and collaborators for nearly 20 years, composing and performing an intimate, meditative repertoire that uses just their two instruments and brings together the classical Arabic tradition of improvised taqsim and modern jazz.

Born in Paris to Syrian parents, Naïssam Jalal is one of the leading figures on the contemporary jazz scene – the leader of four groups, a prolific composer, and with 10 albums to her name (including one with a very cool track featuring Archie Shepp). In 2024, Jalal was named best French flutist by Jazz Magazine.

Hazem Shaheen is an Egyptian oud player, singer, and composer. He studied at the Bait Al Oud and subsequently taught there before moving on to Cairo Opera House. He has albums with his band Eskenderella and as a solo performer.

Jalal and Hazem Shaheen have done many concerts together but only one album (Liqaa, in 2018: it’s very fine). This concert for Ramadan should provide a magical opportunity to experience them and their very distinctive music.