Saturday April 5th
Doors at 6:30pm
Show: 7-10pm

Please join the Solidarity Studios collective for a night of music and community. We will be raising money for Al Rowwad community center in Aida refugee camp in Bethlehem Palestine.

Al Rowwad is a grassroots organization focused on making everyday life better for Palestinians in Aida. They run theater, photography, dance, music, culinary, and other education programs.

Music by:
@jamilaandtheotherheroes
@sumoudcollective
Hamnavi

Visit solidaritystu on Instagram

Suggested donations between $10 and $20 please. Also accepting virtual donations via our website + nonprofit partner!
https://www.solidaritystudios.org/take-action

Solidarity Studios 3323 North Pulaski Road Chicago, IL 60641

#communitymusic #fundraiser #palestine #solidarity

A community conversation discussing the impact of music in bridging cultural divides featuring three musicians of different backgrounds.

“Breaking Down Racial Barriers With Music” is a community conversation and storytelling event demonstrating how music has been historically impactful in bridging cultural divides and mutual understanding.  In the current climate of war and the socio-political tensions that have arisen, artists are standing as cultural diplomats through their instruments and voices. 

Join Palestinian-American musician Ronnie Malley of the band Lamajamal and Intercultural Production; Indian born, Midwest based, classical veena player, Saraswathi Ranganathan of the Surabhi Ensemble; and Kenyan born, Chicago-based musician and Psychologist Dr. Rahul Sharma from the band Funkadesi, will help lead a conversation on how they each use the power of music to connect communities and fight racism through music programs and education of cultures. The three musicians and cultural leaders will follow their unique cultural conversation with a short impromptu musical collaboration.  

*Bridging The Divide is supported by The IL Department of Human Services and The Field Foundation

Sunday February 23, 2025 Salon Series Concert Chicago Klezmer Ensemble & Ronnie Malley

Join us at the Sunday, February 23, 2025 Outpost After Dark Salon Series featuring the incredible musical stylings of the Chicago Klezmer Ensemble & Ronnie Malley!

6:00 pm - 9:00 pm at Art Makers Outpost!

Doors open: 5:45

Tickets $25 online each (anyone who is no longer sitting on a lap needs a ticket)

(*Tickets are $30 if purchased at the door)

Open Seating / Some standing room - first come first serve

SPONSORED BY: Evanston Family Chiropractic, Sketchbook, La Principal, Art Makers Outpost & Our Evanston

Opener: Ronnie Malley

Ronnie Malley is a Palestinian-American multi-instrumentalist musician, theatrical performer, producer, playwright, and educator specializing in musical styles from the Middle East, North Africa, South Asia, and medieval Spain. Ronnie performs with many global artists and ensembles and has worked on award-winning theatrical plays, films, and TV series. He appears on numerous albums and has produced original and collaborative works including Ziryab, The Songbird of Andalusia, American Griot, and Little Syria. Ronnie received the 2023 Chamber Music America Michael Jaffee Visionary Award, 2020 Kennedy Center American College of Music Theater Festival Certificate of Merit for Music Direction, and several Jeff Award nominations for Best Original Composition. He holds a BA in Global Music Studies from DePaul University and a MA in Languages and Linguistics from University of Chicago, where he is currently a PhD student in Ethnomusicology.

Headliner: Chicago Klezmer Ensemble

The Chicago Klezmer Ensemble is led by clarinetist Kurt Bjorling, joined on this program by Annette Bjorling, harp and Joseph Spilberg, bass fiddle. The Ensemble develops modern klezmer music that draws directly from historical East European Jewish music and creates original interpretations and compositions which build upon that tradition. The result is a repertoire that is equally at home on a concert stage or at a celebration. Earthy, emotional music that elevates the spirit and warms the soul. 

Kurt Bjorling (clarinet) The ensemble's director, is a noted performer, teacher, and researcher of klezmer music, having taught at numerous workshops and festivals worldwide since 1986. He appears on recordings by Brave Old World, Itzhak Perlman, Klezmatics, Duo Controverso and Chicago Klezmer Ensemble. Kurt teaches privately in a studio in Evanston. 

Annette Bjorling (harp) Beyond merely adapting Jewish tunes to the harp, Annette creates a unique voice that fits naturally within the idiom of Yiddish music. She has performed and taught at festivals in Europe and North America. Annette teaches harp, in the Chicago area and online. 

Joseph Spilberg (cello) studied jazz bass at New York University and apprenticed with Tunisian Master Percussionist Najib Bahri in Chicago. Joseph is a founding member of Lamajamal and has performed and conducted workshops in Chicago and across the country.  Joseph served as Associate Director of Education at Chicago Arts Partnerships in Education for over ten years providing arts programming for underserved populations in Chicago public schools. 

PCRF - Chicago 16th Annual Fundraising Dinner 2025

Sunday, February 16, 2025 @ 04:00 pm CST at The Westin Chicago Lombard

The PCRF-Chicago Chapter invites you to our annual benefit dinner. This will be the 16th fundraising dinner for PCRF in Chicago, please join us for a heartwarming evening of community as we shine a light on the vital work of the Palestine Children's Relief Fund, a dedicated non-profit providing medical and humanitarian relief to children in Palestine and the region. Your support and presence brings hope to our mission and brightens the future of those who need our help most. 

Deadline to Purchase Tickets: February 11th or until the event is Sold Out.

We are so excited to announce that the incredibly talented Ronnie Malley will be performing a beautiful set of folkloric music at our 16th Annual Fundraising Dinner 🎶

Hey Chicago! From Gaza to Beirut, we're in this together

Friday December 6th 2024 • 6:00 pm

Nabala Cafe 4660 North Broadway, Chicago, IL

Come and meet UNRWA USA staff and fellow supporters for an inspiring and informative evening together at Nabala Cafe in support of urgent assistance to Gaza and Lebanon. 

We are here to answer all of your questions about the headlines in the news and how you can help save lives on the ground in Gaza and Lebanon. We will be joined by Palestinian journalist Amjad Shabat, a recent evacuee from Gaza now living in the U.S.

(Spoiler alert: UNRWA is still operational, and still providing the majority of relief in Gaza!)

We will also feature a music performance by Sumoud Collective, a local Arab music ensemble. Grab a friend, grab a coffee, and come spend an evening in community and advocacy with us - thank you for showing Palestine refugees that Americans care.

You'll also be supporting a local, Palestinian-owned business. Special thanks to Eyad Zeid and our friends at Nabala Cafe for hosting this special event.

Saturday November 30th

Constellation Chicago 3111 North Western Avenue

Doors: 8pm Show: 8:30pm

Get your tickets now before they sell out!

CHICAGO MAQAM

TRADITIONAL ARAB MUSIC AND CONTEMPORARY IMPROVISATION

Instagram #chicagomaqam #interculturalmusic

Chicago Maqam is an ensemble founded by accomplished Middle Eastern solo artists from Egyptian, Palestinian, and Syrian descent living in the Chicagoland area. The core members are Ronnie Malley, Karim Nagi, Issam Rafea, Naeif Rafeh, and Wanees Zarour. They are also frequently accompanied by guest artists. The group came together at the prominent Chicago venue Constellation to volunteer for a relief effort benefiting victims of the 2023 earthquake that devastated Syria and Turkey. Since then, the ensemble has built a following among Chicago’s diverse communities bringing people together from different backgrounds across multiple music genres.

Featuring:
Wanees Zarour ونيس زعرورes Zarour ونيس زعرور
عصام رافع Issam Rafea
Naeif Rafeh
Karim Nagi
Ronnie Malley
Kitt Lyles

Yves Francois Rocambu Jazz

YVES FRANCOIS ROCAMBU JAZZ is a dance band that performs Retro African, Latin, Arabic, and Caribbean grooves, exploring the rhythms of the African diaspora, such as biguine, conga, rumba, highlife, rai, as well as Chicago, New Orleans, and Harlem jazz. Our music is based on the rich rhythmic vocabulary of diverse world cultures, in the context of our deep connection to Chicago's rich musical history, particularly traditional jazz, blues, and world cultures that have called Chicago home for generations.

Date & Time: Thu, Jul 25, 2024 from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Location: Garfield (James) Park

100 N. Central Park Ave.
Chicago, IL 60624

Fee: $0.00

Age Range: All Ages

Categories: MusicNight Out in the Parks

We suggest bringing a blanket, a chair or whatever you'd like to make yourself comfortable during the concert.

https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/events/yves-francois-rocambu-jazz-garfield

Celebrate Chicago’s Cultural Community in the Parks!

Night Out in the Parks activates parks across the city with robust cultural events – bringing neighbors together to laugh, dance, sing, and engage. The Chicago Park District, in partnership with 100 local artists and organizations, presents engaging events and performances to amplify the artistic and cultural vibrancy of our city in every neighborhood and enhance the quality of life across Chicago. Learn more:  About Night Out in the Parks.

NEW - Receive Night Out in Parks text messages!
Get text updates this summer about the Night Out in the Parks program and schedule. To sign up, text night out to (833) 270-0707.

To see movies below, search by movie title. Learn more: Movies in the Parks

#NightOutInTheParks

Tuesday in the Gazebo - Turath Ensemble at Welles

Date & Time: Tue, Jul 23, 2024 from 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

Location: Welles (Gideon) Park

2333 W. Sunnyside Ave.
Chicago, IL 60625

Fee: $0.00

Age Range: All Ages

Categories: MusicNight Out in the Parks

Description: The Chicago Park District's Night Out in the Parks brings Tuesdays at the Gazebo Concert Series to Welles Park, this weeks performer is: Turath Ensemble (a classical Middle Eastern music group)!

Turath means "heritage" in Arabic. The ensemble presents classical and folk music from the Middle East and North Africa on traditional instruments such as the oud (Middle Eastern lute), nay (bamboo flute) and riq (Egyptian tambourine). The group consists of musicians steeped in their tradition, yet with a dynamic flair for modern performance and improvisation.

We suggest bringing a blanket, a chair or whatever you'd like to make yourself comfortable during the concert.

For additional events at Welles Park visit https://bit.ly/Welles2024

Celebrate Chicago’s Cultural Community in the Parks!

Night Out in the Parks activates parks across the city with robust cultural events – bringing neighbors together to laugh, dance, sing, and engage. The Chicago Park District, in partnership with 100 local artists and organizations, presents engaging events and performances to amplify the artistic and cultural vibrancy of our city in every neighborhood and enhance the quality of life across Chicago. Learn more:  About Night Out in the Parks.

NEW - Receive Night Out in Parks text messages!
Get text updates this summer about the Night Out in the Parks program and schedule. To sign up, text night out to (833) 270-0707.

To see movies below, search by movie title. Learn more: Movies in the Parks

Night Out in the Parks is Supported by:      

#NightOutInTheParks

Vernon Area Public Library 6/25 world music performance with Lamajamal

Lamajamal, a musical trio presented with Old Town School of Folk Music, explores classical, folk, and sacred music traditions from around the world. With each member trained in various musical traditions and instruments, the group has an extensive repertoire from the Middle East, North Africa, Balkans, Turkey, Greece, and South Asia.

This outdoor concert is on the Annex Lawn. Bring a chair; a hat and bottle of water is recommended. 

If the weather is inclement, this program will move to the meeting room.

Lamajamal, a palindrome for jamal, the Arabic word for beauty, is an ensemble that explores classical, folk, and sacred music traditions from around the world. With each member trained in various musical traditions and instruments, the group has an extensive repertoire from the Middle East, North Africa, Balkans, Turkey, Greece, and South Asia. For over ten years, Lamajamal has established itself as a vanguard in the world music market performing at international festivals, renowned venues, interfaith events, as well as houses of worship for Jewish, Christian, and Muslim services. Lamajamal’s core mission is to identify historical and social commonalities among different musical styles, cultures, and religions to foster a sense of global citizenry. www.interculturalmusic.com/lamajamal

MUSICIANS

Percussion - George Lawler

Santouri, Woodwinds - Eve Monzingo

Oud, Vocals - Ronnie Malley

Stand With Gaza-A Cultural Benefit for Humanitarian Aid

Music, Dance and Spoken Word Performances

By Muslim Writers Collective Chicago

Sunday, June 23 · 2 - 5pm CDT

Alhambra Palace Restaurant

1240 West Randolph Street Chicago, IL 60607

Stand With Gaza-A Cultural Benefit for Humanitarian Aid

Come join us for an afternoon of solidarity and support at the Alhambra Palace Restaurant on Sun Jun 23 2024 at 2:00 PM. This event aims to raise awareness and funds for humanitarian aid in Gaza. Enjoy a diverse cultural program featuring music, dance, and speakers. Let's come together to show our support for those in need. See you there!

Artists: Emcee Yazid Suliman, Sumoud Collective, STEAM Irish Quartet, Shades of Green, Amira Sackett & Company, Nazhah Khawaja, Fatima Musa, Sana Akhter, Safia Mahjebin, Dinamiin & Freecheh

Endorsed by: Stand With Gaza Chicago (@swgchicago), Muslim Writers Collective - Chicago(@mwc_chi), ecologic, US Palestinian Community Network (USPCN), American Friends Service Committee (AFSC), Muslim Bar Association of Chicago

All proceeds to be donated to the United Nations Relief and Works for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA-USA) If you are not able to make the event, you can donate to unrwa-usa directly here: https://getinvolved.unrwausa.org/team/582505

Little Syria with Omar Offendum, Ronnie Malley and Thanks Joey

3 Performances Fri, Nov 3 - Sat, Nov 4, 2023

UCLA @ The Nimoy 1262 Westwood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90024

“By interweaving different narrative and musical techniques, Offendum shines a light on a historic Syrian neighborhood in Manhattan, New York and creates a space for communal healing.” — The University of North Carolina Press

Set in the Lower Manhattan neighborhood once known as Little Syria (1880~1940), this genre-bridging performance — spanning Hip-Hop, Arabic instrumentation, and ḥakawātī oral storytelling traditions — reimagines early 20th-century life in the heart of Arab-America. Just south of the current World Trade Center, this once vibrant cultural hub for New York’s Middle Eastern immigrants was home to artists and intellectuals, With live instrumentation by Ronnie Malley on the Oud and Piano and beats by Thanks Joey, this creative retelling of a tragically underrepresented history draws an audience attuned to stories of immigration, xenophobia, and the elusive “American dream.” 

Omar Offendum

Omar Offendum is a Syrian-American rapper/spoken word artist. Known for his unique blend of hip-hop and Arabic poetry, he's been featured on prominent world news outlets (Aljazeera, BBC, PBS, LA Times), lectured at a number of prestigious academic institutions (Harvard, Yale, Stanford, Northwestern, UT-Austin, UCLA, SOAS, American University of Beirut), collaborated with major museums and cultural organizations (LACMA / Penn Museum / Ithra / Shangri-La / Arab-American National Museum), and helped raise millions of dollars for various humanitarian relief groups (Islamic Relief, Karam Foundation, Syrian-American Medical Society). Offendum was recently named a Kennedy Center Citizen Artist Fellow, an Arab America Foundation "40 Under 40" award recipient, and a member of both the Pillars Fund cohort for Muslim Narrative Change and the RaceForward Butterfly Lab cohort for Immigrant Narrative Strategy. He currently resides in the great state of New York with his wife and two little children, while daydreaming about the jasmine tree-lined streets of Damascus.

Ronnie Malley

Ronnie Malley is a Palestinian-American multi-instrumentalist musician, composer, sound designer, producer, actor, playwright, educator, and executive director of Intercultural Music Production. With a focus on various musical styles from the Middle East, North Africa, South Asia, and medieval Spain, Ronnie has performed with several artists including Allos Musica, Apollo's Fire, Diwan al-Han, EMME, Huzam, Lamajamal, Mucca Pazza, Newberry Consort, Picosa, Omar Offendum, Surabhi Ensemble, University of Chicago Middle East Music Ensemble, and Yves Francois & Rocambu Jazz. Ronnie has worked on award-winning theatrical plays, films, and TV series including The Band's Visit (Broadway, Tony Awards, Grammy Awards), Mo (Netflix), The Jungle Book (Disney, Goodman Theatre), and The New Mother (Eleva Singleton). He has recorded on over twenty albums and has co-produced several works and staged productions including Little Syria, Karim Nagi's Huzam, The Reminders, Yves Francois, and The Andalusian Trail. Ronnie was recipient of the 2023 Chamber Music America Michael Jaffee Visionary Award. He holds a BA in Global Music Studies from DePaul University and is currently pursuing a graduate degree at the University of Chicago.

Thanks Joey

Born in Brooklyn, New York to Syrian immigrants & having a classical Arabic musician as a grandfather already set the palette for what Thanks Joey would be exposed to - Fairouz, Om Kalthoum, Abdel-Halim Hafez with a little bit of Jay Z, BIGGIE SMALLS, Nas etc. Thanks Joey met his long time collaborator/artist/friend, NIKO IS at 13 years old in Orlando, Florida and the two immediately began creating music together. In 2009 Joey established the Colours Of The Culture label on which the 2015 NIKO IS' album “BRUTUS” was released in collaboration with Talib Kweli's label, Javotti Media. In 2018, Joey released his first instrumental album inspired by the works of Khalil Gibran entitled “On Beats.” He also produced the 2018 NIKO IS album “UNIKO” which was also released in collaboration with Talib Kweli and featured artists from around the world including Curren$y, Tego Calderón, HAIKAISS, and more. He is currently working on multiple projects set to be released on Colours Of The Culture in the near future.

Little Syria with Omar Offendum, Ronnie Malley and Thanks Joey

3 Performances Fri, Nov 3 - Sat, Nov 4, 2023

UCLA @ The Nimoy 1262 Westwood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90024

“By interweaving different narrative and musical techniques, Offendum shines a light on a historic Syrian neighborhood in Manhattan, New York and creates a space for communal healing.” — The University of North Carolina Press

Set in the Lower Manhattan neighborhood once known as Little Syria (1880~1940), this genre-bridging performance — spanning Hip-Hop, Arabic instrumentation, and ḥakawātī oral storytelling traditions — reimagines early 20th-century life in the heart of Arab-America. Just south of the current World Trade Center, this once vibrant cultural hub for New York’s Middle Eastern immigrants was home to artists and intellectuals, With live instrumentation by Ronnie Malley on the Oud and Piano and beats by Thanks Joey, this creative retelling of a tragically underrepresented history draws an audience attuned to stories of immigration, xenophobia, and the elusive “American dream.” 

Omar Offendum

Omar Offendum is a Syrian-American rapper/spoken word artist. Known for his unique blend of hip-hop and Arabic poetry, he's been featured on prominent world news outlets (Aljazeera, BBC, PBS, LA Times), lectured at a number of prestigious academic institutions (Harvard, Yale, Stanford, Northwestern, UT-Austin, UCLA, SOAS, American University of Beirut), collaborated with major museums and cultural organizations (LACMA / Penn Museum / Ithra / Shangri-La / Arab-American National Museum), and helped raise millions of dollars for various humanitarian relief groups (Islamic Relief, Karam Foundation, Syrian-American Medical Society). Offendum was recently named a Kennedy Center Citizen Artist Fellow, an Arab America Foundation "40 Under 40" award recipient, and a member of both the Pillars Fund cohort for Muslim Narrative Change and the RaceForward Butterfly Lab cohort for Immigrant Narrative Strategy. He currently resides in the great state of New York with his wife and two little children, while daydreaming about the jasmine tree-lined streets of Damascus.

Ronnie Malley

Ronnie Malley is a Palestinian-American multi-instrumentalist musician, composer, sound designer, producer, actor, playwright, educator, and executive director of Intercultural Music Production. With a focus on various musical styles from the Middle East, North Africa, South Asia, and medieval Spain, Ronnie has performed with several artists including Allos Musica, Apollo's Fire, Diwan al-Han, EMME, Huzam, Lamajamal, Mucca Pazza, Newberry Consort, Picosa, Omar Offendum, Surabhi Ensemble, University of Chicago Middle East Music Ensemble, and Yves Francois & Rocambu Jazz. Ronnie has worked on award-winning theatrical plays, films, and TV series including The Band's Visit (Broadway, Tony Awards, Grammy Awards), Mo (Netflix), The Jungle Book (Disney, Goodman Theatre), and The New Mother (Eleva Singleton). He has recorded on over twenty albums and has co-produced several works and staged productions including Little Syria, Karim Nagi's Huzam, The Reminders, Yves Francois, and The Andalusian Trail. Ronnie was recipient of the 2023 Chamber Music America Michael Jaffee Visionary Award. He holds a BA in Global Music Studies from DePaul University and is currently pursuing a graduate degree at the University of Chicago.

Thanks Joey

Born in Brooklyn, New York to Syrian immigrants & having a classical Arabic musician as a grandfather already set the palette for what Thanks Joey would be exposed to - Fairouz, Om Kalthoum, Abdel-Halim Hafez with a little bit of Jay Z, BIGGIE SMALLS, Nas etc. Thanks Joey met his long time collaborator/artist/friend, NIKO IS at 13 years old in Orlando, Florida and the two immediately began creating music together. In 2009 Joey established the Colours Of The Culture label on which the 2015 NIKO IS' album “BRUTUS” was released in collaboration with Talib Kweli's label, Javotti Media. In 2018, Joey released his first instrumental album inspired by the works of Khalil Gibran entitled “On Beats.” He also produced the 2018 NIKO IS album “UNIKO” which was also released in collaboration with Talib Kweli and featured artists from around the world including Curren$y, Tego Calderón, HAIKAISS, and more. He is currently working on multiple projects set to be released on Colours Of The Culture in the near future.

Little Syria with Omar Offendum, Ronnie Malley and Thanks Joey

3 Performances Fri, Nov 3 - Sat, Nov 4, 2023

UCLA @ The Nimoy 1262 Westwood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90024

“By interweaving different narrative and musical techniques, Offendum shines a light on a historic Syrian neighborhood in Manhattan, New York and creates a space for communal healing.” — The University of North Carolina Press

Set in the Lower Manhattan neighborhood once known as Little Syria (1880~1940), this genre-bridging performance — spanning Hip-Hop, Arabic instrumentation, and ḥakawātī oral storytelling traditions — reimagines early 20th-century life in the heart of Arab-America. Just south of the current World Trade Center, this once vibrant cultural hub for New York’s Middle Eastern immigrants was home to artists and intellectuals, With live instrumentation by Ronnie Malley on the Oud and Piano and beats by Thanks Joey, this creative retelling of a tragically underrepresented history draws an audience attuned to stories of immigration, xenophobia, and the elusive “American dream.” 

Omar Offendum

Omar Offendum is a Syrian-American rapper/spoken word artist. Known for his unique blend of hip-hop and Arabic poetry, he's been featured on prominent world news outlets (Aljazeera, BBC, PBS, LA Times), lectured at a number of prestigious academic institutions (Harvard, Yale, Stanford, Northwestern, UT-Austin, UCLA, SOAS, American University of Beirut), collaborated with major museums and cultural organizations (LACMA / Penn Museum / Ithra / Shangri-La / Arab-American National Museum), and helped raise millions of dollars for various humanitarian relief groups (Islamic Relief, Karam Foundation, Syrian-American Medical Society). Offendum was recently named a Kennedy Center Citizen Artist Fellow, an Arab America Foundation "40 Under 40" award recipient, and a member of both the Pillars Fund cohort for Muslim Narrative Change and the RaceForward Butterfly Lab cohort for Immigrant Narrative Strategy. He currently resides in the great state of New York with his wife and two little children, while daydreaming about the jasmine tree-lined streets of Damascus.

Ronnie Malley

Ronnie Malley is a Palestinian-American multi-instrumentalist musician, composer, sound designer, producer, actor, playwright, educator, and executive director of Intercultural Music Production. With a focus on various musical styles from the Middle East, North Africa, South Asia, and medieval Spain, Ronnie has performed with several artists including Allos Musica, Apollo's Fire, Diwan al-Han, EMME, Huzam, Lamajamal, Mucca Pazza, Newberry Consort, Picosa, Omar Offendum, Surabhi Ensemble, University of Chicago Middle East Music Ensemble, and Yves Francois & Rocambu Jazz. Ronnie has worked on award-winning theatrical plays, films, and TV series including The Band's Visit (Broadway, Tony Awards, Grammy Awards), Mo (Netflix), The Jungle Book (Disney, Goodman Theatre), and The New Mother (Eleva Singleton). He has recorded on over twenty albums and has co-produced several works and staged productions including Little Syria, Karim Nagi's Huzam, The Reminders, Yves Francois, and The Andalusian Trail. Ronnie was recipient of the 2023 Chamber Music America Michael Jaffee Visionary Award. He holds a BA in Global Music Studies from DePaul University and is currently pursuing a graduate degree at the University of Chicago.

Thanks Joey

Born in Brooklyn, New York to Syrian immigrants & having a classical Arabic musician as a grandfather already set the palette for what Thanks Joey would be exposed to - Fairouz, Om Kalthoum, Abdel-Halim Hafez with a little bit of Jay Z, BIGGIE SMALLS, Nas etc. Thanks Joey met his long time collaborator/artist/friend, NIKO IS at 13 years old in Orlando, Florida and the two immediately began creating music together. In 2009 Joey established the Colours Of The Culture label on which the 2015 NIKO IS' album “BRUTUS” was released in collaboration with Talib Kweli's label, Javotti Media. In 2018, Joey released his first instrumental album inspired by the works of Khalil Gibran entitled “On Beats.” He also produced the 2018 NIKO IS album “UNIKO” which was also released in collaboration with Talib Kweli and featured artists from around the world including Curren$y, Tego Calderón, HAIKAISS, and more. He is currently working on multiple projects set to be released on Colours Of The Culture in the near future.

RONNIE MALLEY: ZIRYAB, THE SONGBIRD OF ANDALUSIA

OCTOBER 22 @ 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Benaroya Hall: Illsley Ball Nordstrom Recital Hall

200 University St
Seattle, WA 98101 United States + Google Map

From 9th century Islamic Spain to present day America

Oudist Ronnie Malley presents his original musical narrative about the life of Ziryab, a 9th century musician and polymath, who traveled from Baghdad to Muslim Spain and shifted the course of history. 2023 Recipient of the Michael Jaffee Visionary Award of Chamber Music America,

“Ronnie Malley’s musicianship is superb and his interweaving of his own life with the story of Ziryab’s, as well as his highly-informative discourse on the medieval master’s legacy, make for an enlightening performance.” — Jacob Davis, chicagocritic.com

Ziryab, The Songbird of Andalusia

– SOLO PLAY WRITTEN & PERFORMED BY RONNIE MALLEY

TAKE AN ENCHANTING MUSICAL JOURNEY FROM 9TH CENTURY ISLAMIC SPAIN TO PRESENT DAY AMERICA. ARABIC MUSIC, POETRY, AND SONGS BREATHE LIFE INTO THE STORY OF ZIRYAB, A FORMER SLAVE FROM BAGHDAD, WHOSE MUSICAL ABILITIES BROUGHT HIM FAME THROUGHOUT THE MIDDLE EAST, NORTH AFRICA, AND AL-ANDALUS: A LAND WHERE CHRISTIANS, JEWS, AND MUSLIMS CO-EXISTED FOR CENTURIES CREATING A UNIQUE AND DIVERSE SOCIETY. THE PLAY DESCRIBES THE HISTORY OF ZIRYAB, ISLAM IN MEDIEVAL EUROPE AND THE MIDDLE EAST, AND EL OUD – A MIDDLE EASTERN LUTE THAT EVENTUALLY BECAME THE GUITAR. THE STORY ALSO WEAVES PAST AND PRESENT INCLUDING ANECDOTES FROM RONNIE’S OWN LIFE GROWING UP AS A MUSICIAN AND MUSLIM PALESTINIAN-AMERICAN IN THE UNITED STATES.

Presented by By Fawaz Kannout's Muntada and Sunflower Chamber Orchestra

Dominican University Performing Arts Center

7900 Division Street River Forest, IL 60305

Join us for a mesmerizing evening of Arabic music and culture at the Dominican University Performing Arts Center! Immerse yourself in the enchanting melodies of Lubana Al Quntar, a renowned vocalist, and a lineup of exceptional guest performers, who will add their own flair to the evening. Prepare to be captivated by their soulful performances and experience the beauty of live music. This in-person event promises to be a memorable night filled with harmony and joy. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to witness the magic unfold on stage.

Lubana Al Quntar is celebrated as Syria's first opera singer and the first Arab opera singer to participate in international opera voice competitions. Born in Damascus, she has won multiple international singing competitions and studied at renowned music institutions in London, Damascus, and Holland. Globally recognized as a soloist, Lubana has performed at prestigious venues such as the Opera Bastille in Paris, Opera Avicenna in Doha, and the Kennedy Center in the United States, blending traditional Arabic singing with opera techniques. Overall, her unique vocal talent has allowed her to traverse a broad range of genres, from classical Arabic and folk songs to pop and classical opera, showcasing her skills as a dramatic coloratura. Currently based in Washington DC, Lubana uses her voice to promote Syrian culture and aids refugees through fundraising concerts.

Lubana Al-Quntar comes from a Syrian family that is deeply rooted in classical Arabic music. She is related to singer/actress Amal Al Atrash (known by her stage name, Asmahan) and her brother, renowned composer and singer Farid Al Atrash. These connections influenced her musical path and played an important role in her decision to seek a career as a professional singer. Born in Syria, she began singing at an early age and had an unusual gift for singing challenging sung poetry from childhood. Today Lubana performs a wide a range of repertoire within the Arab music canon which include music from the classical, contemporary, folk, and pop genres. Her expressive voice allows her to add luster and richness to the various singing styles.  In addition to traditional Arab song, Lubana studied opera and became the first Syrian opera singer to attain international recognition, as she appeared in concerts throughout Europe.  She returned to Syria to head the Department of Opera Singing and launched the Department of Classical Arabic Singing at the Syrian National Conservatory. This was a ground-breaking event because, for the first time, students could study both operatic and traditional singing at an accredited institution. She established the Arabic Music Singing Ensemble that performed across the Middle East. She came to the United States in 2012 and has since performed in numerous venues across the country in addition to her European performances.

Fawaz Kannout's Muntada Whether it be as a player or a listener, Dr. Fawaz Kannout’s love and passion for music were unimaginable. He wanted to organize a way to share his love of music with his family, friends, and community. This mission led to the creation of Muntada, a platform where musicians could show their talents and audiences could appreciate and learn the beauty of music. Despite his uphill battle with cancer, Fawaz introduced the Chicago land community to many talented artists and musicians and hosted four large-scale successful concerts. Unfortunately, Fawaz lost his battle with cancer, but his love and motivation to expose people to the beauty of art will grow and continue through Muntada.

Al-Qasar

When continents collide, they make a thunderous sound. Al-Qasar creates the soundtrack to that fission. Arabian fuzz, they term it, a vision that's brazenly electric and deeply connected to its roots. The band was started in the Barbès neighborhood of Paris by producer Thomas Attar Bellier. The musicians came together from France, Morocco, Algeria, Egypt, and the United States. Shows followed, first in Europe and then in the Middle East. They put out an EP in 2020, the widely-lauded Miraj, recorded in Cairo. On Al-Qasar's first full-length album, Who Are We? (out September 16, 2022), bass, drums and percussion create an irresistible groove, while electric saz and guitars build a wailing wall above, with Moroccan vocalist Jaouad El Garouge's ecstatic Arabic vocals, steeped in his Gnawa upbringing, inspired by history as it strides into the future. Like a psychedelic celebration on the dancefloor, it bristles with the kind of deep energy that makes Al-Qasar sound like the world's most dangerous wedding band. Al-Qasar's magnetic pull drew big names from around the world, such as The Dead Kennedys' Jello Biafra, Lee Ranaldo of Sonic Youth, Sudanese innovator Alsarah, Algerian oud virtuoso Mehdi Haddab (Speed Caravan), and acclaimed Egyptian singer Hend Elrawy (Orange Blossom). Al-Qasar's music never wavers, pulling from the hypnotic roots of North African trance and threading it into a fabric with the elaborate beauty of Arabic scales and the shock and thrill of rock'n'roll. https://alqasar.bandcamp.com/album/who-are-we

World Music Festival Chicago (Sept 22 – Oct 1) brings global grooves by award-winning artists from around the world to the citywide, multi-venue festival featuring more than 30 artists and ensembles representing 22 countries and regions of the world.

The festival also celebrates 11 years of Ragamala, the largest all-night long presentation of live Indian classical music in the United States.

Register here and follow us on our social media platforms for updates, changes, and other announcements.

This event is free, however registration is encouraged to help us plan accordingly. Space may be limited, and your RSVP does not guarantee entry – so please arrive early.

Instagram @chicagodcase

Twitter: @WMFChicago

Facebook @WorldMusicFestivalChicago

Yves Francois and Rocambu Jazz LIVE music dates

Nights out in the Park with Yves François Rocambu Jazz in Chicago Illinois

All times 6.00 to 7.00 pm

FREE - ALL AGES

BRING A CHAIR

AUGUST 9 - Cosme Park 9201 S Longwood Dr

AUGUST 22 - Hiawatha Park 8029 W Forest Preserve

AUGUST 23 - Donovan Park 3620 S Lituanica Ave

SEPTEMBER 7 - Mount Greenwood Park 3721 W 111th St

SEPTEMBER 14 - Park #567 1801 N. Milwaukee Ave

Yves Francois is a jazz trumpeter and an esteemed artist award recipient from DCASE. His Rocambu Jazz project draws on influences of his family's connection to Tunisia and North Africa and also explores world jazz genres including retro Afro-Caribbean grooves, congas, high life, rumbas, soukous, and New Orleans jazz

Yves François et Frank Youngwerth trumpets, Marc Smierciak et Eve Monzingo reeds, Ronnie Malley oud, guitar, percussion , Greg Nergaard bass et George Lawler trapkit percussion

LISTEN and BUY OUR NEW ALBUM

CANCELLED:

We’ll be back with a scheduling update soon!

***

KARAMA Arab Dance & Music Troupe

 SUNDAY SEPT 10

EPIPHANY CENTER CHICAGO

 5pm - 6:30pm

All Ages

$20 & $10

Sept 10 info & tickets

KARAMA webpage & video

Performing The Kufiya & The Quftaan a dance & music tableau from around the Arab world, with live music & group choreography

KARAMA (Arabic for dignity/respect) is an Arab heritage troupe based in Chicago IL. KARIM NAGI composes original music and choreography that authentically engage in the continuum of Arab tradition. With an ensemble of 8 musicians and dancers, the troupe endeavors to represent the diversity of Arab culture within this unique interpretation. The balance between ancestral customs and urban diaspora-based sensibility is vigilantly observed. The goal is to express the culture not as a standard tourist spectacle, but as a living art form created by inspired performers.

Their current program of THE KUFIYA & THE QUFTAAN is a pan-Arab dance excursion set to a live score of both traditional and original Arabic music. The iconic items of regional clothing create the scenes that feature dynamic community dances, along with performances on musical instruments of Arab tradition. The voyage starts with a humble interactive living room party, singing and dancing to traditional songs from various Arab regions. It continues onward to the Arabian Peninsula, North Africa, Egypt and Near East with troupe dances and full ensemble musical accompaniment. Dancer & Musician KARIM NAGI guides the audience with educational oratory and participatory joyfulness.

THE ENSEMBLE
Karim Nagi - percussionist, dancer, composer, choreographer, orator
Ronnie Malley - oud lutist
Emad Ibrahim - keman violinist
Naeif Rafeh - nay flutist
Indrani Hadia - dancer
Phaedra Darwish - dancer
Azeema Naheed - dancer
Soumaya MaRose - dancer, guest choreographer
Arti Ishak - dance understudy

Yves Francois and Rocambu Jazz LIVE music dates

Nights out in the Park with Yves François Rocambu Jazz in Chicago Illinois

All times 6.30 to 7.30 pm

FREE - ALL AGES

BRING A CHAIR

AUGUST 9 - Cosme Park 9201 S Longwood Dr

AUGUST 22 - Hiawatha Park 8029 W Forest Preserve

AUGUST 23 - Donovan Park 3620 S Lituanica Ave

SEPTEMBER 7 - Mount Greenwood Park 3721 W 111th St

SEPTEMBER 14 - Park #567 1801 N. Milwaukee Ave

Yves Francois is a jazz trumpeter and an esteemed artist award recipient from DCASE. His Rocambu Jazz project draws on influences of his family's connection to Tunisia and North Africa and also explores world jazz genres including retro Afro-Caribbean grooves, congas, high life, rumbas, soukous, and New Orleans jazz

Yves François et Frank Youngwerth trumpets, Marc Smierciak et Eve Monzingo reeds, Ronnie Malley oud, guitar, percussion , Greg Nergaard bass et George Lawler trapkit percussion

LISTEN and BUY OUR NEW ALBUM

Vernon Area Public Library 8/29 world music performance with Lamajamal

Lamajamal, a musical trio presented with Old Town School of Folk Music, explores classical, folk, and sacred music traditions from around the world. With each member trained in various musical traditions and instruments, the group has an extensive repertoire from the Middle East, North Africa, Balkans, Turkey, Greece, and South Asia.

This outdoor concert is on the Annex Lawn. Bring a chair; a hat and bottle of water is recommended. 

If the weather is inclement, this program will move to the meeting room.

Lamajamal, a palindrome for jamal, the Arabic word for beauty, is an ensemble that explores classical, folk, and sacred music traditions from around the world. With each member trained in various musical traditions and instruments, the group has an extensive repertoire from the Middle East, North Africa, Balkans, Turkey, Greece, and South Asia. For over ten years, Lamajamal has established itself as a vanguard in the world music market performing at international festivals, renowned venues, interfaith events, as well as houses of worship for Jewish, Christian, and Muslim services. Lamajamal’s core mission is to identify historical and social commonalities among different musical styles, cultures, and religions to foster a sense of global citizenry. www.interculturalmusic.com/lamajamal

MUSICIANS

Percussion - George Lawler

Santouri, Woodwinds - Eve Monzingo

Bass - Joseph Spilberg

Yves Francois and Rocambu Jazz LIVE music dates

Nights out in the Park with Yves François Rocambu Jazz in Chicago Illinois

All times 6.30 to 7.30 pm

FREE - ALL AGES

BRING A CHAIR

AUGUST 9 - Cosme Park 9201 S Longwood Dr

AUGUST 22 - Hiawatha Park 8029 W Forest Preserve

AUGUST 23 - Donovan Park 3620 S Lituanica Ave

SEPTEMBER 7 - Mount Greenwood Park 3721 W 111th St

SEPTEMBER 14 - Park #567 1801 N. Milwaukee Ave

Yves Francois is a jazz trumpeter and an esteemed artist award recipient from DCASE. His Rocambu Jazz project draws on influences of his family's connection to Tunisia and North Africa and also explores world jazz genres including retro Afro-Caribbean grooves, congas, high life, rumbas, soukous, and New Orleans jazz

Yves François et Frank Youngwerth trumpets, Marc Smierciak et Eve Monzingo reeds, Ronnie Malley oud, guitar, percussion , Greg Nergaard bass et George Lawler trapkit percussion

LISTEN and BUY OUR NEW ALBUM

Yves Francois and Rocambu Jazz LIVE music dates

Nights out in the Park with Yves François Rocambu Jazz in Chicago Illinois

All times 6.30 to 7.30 pm

FREE - ALL AGES

BRING A CHAIR

AUGUST 9 - Cosme Park 9201 S Longwood Dr

AUGUST 22 - Hiawatha Park 8029 W Forest Preserve

AUGUST 23 - Donovan Park 3620 S Lituanica Ave

SEPTEMBER 7 - Mount Greenwood Park 3721 W 111th St

SEPTEMBER 14 - Park #567 1801 N. Milwaukee Ave

Yves Francois is a jazz trumpeter and an esteemed artist award recipient from DCASE. His Rocambu Jazz project draws on influences of his family's connection to Tunisia and North Africa and also explores world jazz genres including retro Afro-Caribbean grooves, congas, high life, rumbas, soukous, and New Orleans jazz

Yves François et Frank Youngwerth trumpets, Marc Smierciak et Eve Monzingo reeds, Ronnie Malley oud, guitar, percussion , Greg Nergaard bass et George Lawler trapkit percussion

LISTEN and BUY OUR NEW ALBUM

Lamajamal performs on the Ribfest Main Stage 1pm August 20th

Like their name, a palindrome derived from the Arabic word for beauty, these five creative musicians take the music of our global ancestors and turn it inside out creating something fresh and innovative yet true to its roots. The group formed in 2004 after meeting for late night jam sessions at a belly dance store in Chicago. Since then they have played events such as the Chicago World Music Fest, Chicago Turkish Festival, Milwaukee's Global Union fest, the Chicago Arabesque Festival, Chicago Cultural Center, CBS morning news, as well as local venues likt the Empty Bottle, the Hideout, the Double Door, Martyrs', and many more. Whether its a folk fest or an underground dance club, Lamajamal has gained a reputation as one of the most energetic live “gypsy party” bands in Chicago. In 2007 Lamajamal released the album "Gypsy Surf", an edgy interpretation of Balkan and Arabic classics done on guitar, drum set, oud, clarinet and electric bass. Their follow up to Gypsy Surf is a highly danceable blend of original music, and dance music from Turkey, the Balkans and the Middle East, recorded with a tasteful influence of urban production techniques such as dub and hip-hop. In 2010, Lamajamal released an album of Kashmiri folk music which was commissioned by the Funkar International Organization for the purpose of the preservation of the Kashmiri language and culture.

“…Lamajamal is a band without borders." - Tony Sarabia, Chicago Public Radio

"…when they're on, they're on, arriving at a fuzzy, garagey take on Roma music thanks to a knack for sexy, serpentine grooves and a mean, mean oud player." - Monica Kendrick, Chicago Reader

“Lamajamal--it must be said--isn't a novelty act. Nor are they taking traditional Gypsy music and simply updating it. They take folk music from all over the world and they put their own spin on it. The response for what they have performed and released has been very encouraging.” - Pioneer Press

"So, here's my thumbs-up to Lamajamal for creating a fun and accessible musical experience that offers the full range of expression from silly to sophisticated. Some of the tight harmonies and culturally-mixed lines and phrases stopped me cold as I found myself transported to who-knows-where. The skill and confidence it takes to be that relaxed playing complex material can only be achieved through much hard effort. What ensemble work!” - Roxane Assaf, Public Relations, Chicago Arabesque

Friday, August 18 | Surabhi Ensemble presented by Old Town School of Folk Music

The free summer series Water Colors returns Fridays at 6:30PM from July 14–August 25. Chicago is known for its colorful influence on jazz music, which takes center stage in this waterfront series of singers and musicians who specialize in “America’s classical music” at the Lake Stage in Polk Bros Park.

Polk Bros Park near Navy Peri) 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL

Surabhi Ensemble performs Friday August 18th from 6:30-8:30pm

The Surabhi Ensemble was founded in 2010 by Indian veena player Saraswathi Ranganathan, director of the Ensemble of Ragas School of Performing Arts in Schaumburg and “Best Asian Entertainer of the Year,” according to the 2018 Chicago Music Awards. The core of the group has included fellow local musical luminaries such as Spanish flamenco guitarist Carlo Basile, tabla master Dhananjay Kunte, and percussionist Bob Garrett. About 8 years ago, the Surabhi Ensemble expanded to include oud player Ronnie Malley and bassist Greg Neergard, and more recently incorporated modern and Indian dancer Kinnari Vora and flamenco dancer Leticia Aravena. Along with virtuosic musicianship, the Surabhi Ensemble is known for its activist mission: to demonstrate connections between cultures and how togetherness can create positivity. The ensemble has performed globally in Vietnam, Spain, Portugal, Senegal and Mexico with plans to tour India in 2024. 

Mission: 

The mission of the Surabhi Ensemble is to demonstrate the connections between cultures and to teach a positive message of togetherness in creating, performing, and demonstrating new works of music and dance. Members of the group work in many settings such as schools, hospitals, theaters, concert halls, festivals, refugee organizations, neighborhood parks, and cultural centers to bring this positive message of cultural unity and outreach. 

Yves Francois and Rocambu Jazz LIVE music dates

Nights out in the Park with Yves François Rocambu Jazz in Chicago Illinois

All times 6.30 to 7.30 pm

FREE - ALL AGES

BRING A CHAIR

AUGUST 9 - Cosme Park 9201 S Longwood Dr

AUGUST 22 - Hiawatha Park 8029 W Forest Preserve

AUGUST 23 - Donovan Park 3620 S Lituanica Ave

SEPTEMBER 7 - Mount Greenwood Park 3721 W 111th St

SEPTEMBER 14 - Park #567 1801 N. Milwaukee Ave

Yves Francois is a jazz trumpeter and an esteemed artist award recipient from DCASE. His Rocambu Jazz project draws on influences of his family's connection to Tunisia and North Africa and also explores world jazz genres including retro Afro-Caribbean grooves, congas, high life, rumbas, soukous, and New Orleans jazz

Yves François et Frank Youngwerth trumpets, Marc Smierciak et Eve Monzingo reeds, Ronnie Malley oud, guitar, percussion , Greg Nergaard bass et George Lawler trapkit percussion

LISTEN and BUY OUR NEW ALBUM

South Asia Institute Presents

SURABHI ENSEMBLE

Chicago's Indo-Flamenco-Arab-Music and Dance Supergroup

WHEN: Saturday, July 22, 2023

2PM - 4PM

FREE ADMISSION

RSVP Required - Book your tickets at https://www.eventbrite.com/.../surabhi-ensemble-free...

Surabhi Ensemble : Free Family Event Bring the whole family to SAI for our new Free Family Saturday special event program happening once a month from July until September.

Surabhi Ensemble

The mission of the Surabhi Ensemble is to demonstrate the connections between cultures and to teach a positive message of togetherness in creating, performing, and demonstrating new works of music and dance. Members of the group work in many settings such as schools, hospitals, theaters, concert halls, festivals, refugee organizations, neighborhood parks, and cultural centers to bring this positive message of cultural unity and outreach.

For their South Asia Institute debut program, Surabhi Ensemble will offer an informative hands-on demonstration of their instruments and dance lessons starting 30 minutes prior to the beginning of the music and dance program. To further help kids understand the music and cultures being showcased.

Founded by Veena artist Saraswathi Ranganathan, the group has been performing for the past 10 years, delighting audiences with lush rustic soundscapes of flamenco music and Afro rhythms woven into the rich sounds of Indian Classical ragas, Turkish Maqams, embellished with blues and folk melodies. Performances often include both music and dance from the Indian, African, Spanish flamenco traditions. Surabhi Ensemble features an outstanding line-up from Chicago’s music and theater scene.

"Featured Artists:

Saraswathi Ranganathan - Veena, Vocals

Ronnie Malley - Oud, Vocals

Carlo Basile - Spanish Guitar

Bob Garrett - Percussion

Greg Nergaard - Bass

Dhananjay Kunte - Tabla

Kinnari Vora - Indian Dance

Leticia Aravena - Flamenco Dance

Phaedra Darwish - Flute/Arabic Dance

*This program is supported by the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events*

Surabhi Ensemble at City Winery Chicago on Monday, June 26th at 8:00pm

Surabhi Ensemble returns to City Winery after a successful debut of a new work at the Chicago World Music Festival called “Scenes from the Pandemic” and being selected as one of Chicago’s Top International and Global ensembles in the 2022 Chicago Reader’s Best of Chicago poll. The ensemble will present excerpted scenes from the new work along with special guest appearances by members of Sones de Mexico, Las Guitarras de España, Intercultural Music Production and the Ishti Collective. Additionally, the Surabhi Ensemble has been invited to perform in Pune, Bangalore, Gujarat, and Goa for late 2024. This continues the Surabhi Ensemble “Global Peace Tour” which has included stops in Vietnam, Senegal, Spain, Portugal and Mexico. This program will also feature a preview of works from the India 2024 Tour.

Featured Artists:
Saraswathi Ranganathan - Veena, Vocals
Ronnie Malley - Oud, Vocals
Carlo Basile - Spanish Guitar
Bob Garrett - Percussion
Greg Nergaard - Bass
Dhananjay Kunte - Tabla
Kinnari Vora - Indian Dance 
Leticia Aravena - Flamenco Dance 
Juan Dies - Guitar, Vocals
Lorena Iniguez - Mexican Dance
Phaedra Darwish - Flute/Arabic Dance 

The Newberry Consort will perform a concert representing the diverse musical traditions of the Ottoman court and surrounding regions. Curated by Ronnie Malley, the program complements a symposium hosted by the Newberry’s Center for Renaissance Studies that explores the Tarih-i Yeni Dünya, or A History of the India of the West, an Ottoman manuscript in the Newberry collection dated about 1600. The Tarih relates stories of the explorations of Columbus, Cortés, Pizarro, and others, and includes illuminated hand-drawn maps and images of the Americas and beyond.

Explore a digitized version of this beautiful manuscript, including maps and illuminations.

This event is cosponsored by the Paul M. Angell Family Foundation.

SPEAKERS AND PERFORMERS

Liza Malamut is Artistic Director of The Newberry Consort, a founding member of Incantare, and regularly appears as a trombonist, educator, and presenter throughout the United States and abroad.

Ronnie Malley is a multi-instrumentalist musician, composer, producer, playwright, educator, and executive director of Intercultural Music Production. He has worked on award-winning theatrical plays, recorded as a musician on over twenty albums, and performs with several music groups from various global musical styles with specialization in music of the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia. Ronnie has a BA in Global Music Studies from DePaul University and is currently pursuing a PhD in Ethnomusicology at the University of Chicago.

COST AND REGISTRATION

This program is free and open to all. Advance registration required.

IN-PERSON REGISTRATION

LIVESTREAM REGISTRATION

ENJOY FREE, LIVE MUSIC ON SELECT TUESDAY EVENINGS IN THE GREENSPACE OF GALLAGHER WAY

Old Town School Happy Hours return this summer to Gallagher Way! Join the legendary Old Town School of Folk Music for a weekly live music experience sure to end your day on a high note. From the familiar sounds of pop, rock, and folk from around the corner, to unique rhythms and melodies from around the world, many Happy Hours will also feature free dance lessons or other interactive music experiences. Old Town School Happy Hours are suitable for all ages, so bring your families and friends! Kicking off the series will be these amazing artists & dancers:

Dill Costa Band - Brazilian Music & Dance

Surabhi Ensemble - Global Fusion Music & Dance

Kolaam Dance Company - African Percussion & Dance