ALEXANDRIA TO DELOS

Join us on an extraordinary musical journey around the Mediterranean, originating in Alexandria, Egypt, and spreading in multiple directions: westward along the North African coast before crossing to Andalusia in Spain, and eastward across the Mediterranean, ultimately converging on the Greek island of Delos, which, according to legend, was the birthplace of Apollo, the god of light, music, and the arts. This musical voyage captures the intertwining and vibrant soundscapes of Arabic, Byzantine, Sufi, and Andalusian traditions creating a shared Eastern Mediterranean musical heritage. Throughout history, Alexandria served as a cosmopolitan melting pot where Mediterranean cultures and musical traditions flourished. It laid the groundwork for shared musical theories and cultural exchange. Greek musical traditions integrated Arabic microtonal traditions, while Arabic music drew influences from North African rhythms, Byzantine melismatic style, Sufi, and other regional elements including the Andalusian genre. Alexandria to Delos celebrates the meeting of the Arabic world and European musical traditions. Egypt stood as the bridge in this cross-cultural exchange, facilitating the transmission of eastern scales, maqams, and complex rhythmic structures across the Mediterranean. This concert is a sell-out. Book your tickets today! This cultural event is supported by Arabic Language & Cultures Discipline, The University of Sydney. Conductor & Artistic Director Ghada Daher-Elmowy Musical Director Dr Noel Elmowy (piano) Ensemble Charbel Azzi (oud, electric guitar), Catherine Azzi (cello), Christopher Soulos (bass), Danielle Challita (flute), Mustafa Al Tayar (violin), Phil Nakad (qanun), Stuart van Degraff (wind), Samir Rafraf (drums), Nasser Selimi (tabla)