Layaali Arabic Music Ensemble - Samai Bayati Ibrahim al Arian

Layaali Arabic Music Ensemble performing live at UMass Bezanson Recital Hall, at the “Syria, In Words and Music” event, sponsored by The Common and the Massachusetts Review.

Layaali is a Massachusetts-based group of talented musicians whose love and dedication to Arabic music have earned them wide acclaim from both ethnomusicologists and audiences at sold-out performances throughout the U.S. and internationally. The ensemble is committed to performing the traditional music of the Arab world and to preserving the rich legacy of Arabic culture through soulful vocals, hypnotic instrumental improvisations, electrifying percussion, and faithful renditions and recordings of master works.

Layaali’s mission is to increase the awareness of Arabic music and culture through concerts, recordings, workshops and lectures. The musicians, who come from four Arab countries – Palestine, Lebanon, Syria and Morocco -- include: Jamal Sinno (qanun and vocals), Muhammed Mejaour (nay), Kinan Idnawi (oud), and Michel Moushabeck (tabla, riqq, daff).