The legendary Lebanese composer, singer, and oud master Marcel Khalife returns to Ann Arbor for the first time in 20 years, joined by his son, virtuoso pianist Rami Khalife, and his nephew, cellist Sary Khalife, in a program that underscores his family’s incredible musical legacy. Revered as a cultural icon in the Arab World and beyond, Marcel Khalife is deeply attached to the text of great contemporary Arab poets and is an innovator in Arab music who draws upon traditional forms and blends Western elements to create an evocative sound that has captivated audiences around the world. His extensive body of work transcends his lyrical works to encompass groundbreaking compositions, orchestral and choral works, music for dance, and concertos for a variety of traditional Arabic instruments.

The cross-generational Khalife trio will perform a selection of Marcel’s revered classics that endeared him to millions in the Arab World, with new arrangements alongside original compositions. Sary Khalife masterfully incorporates the Arabic quarter tone on his cello, seamlessly weaving Arabic and Western sounds, while Rami’s pianistic skills combine his classical training from The Juilliard School with a “Keith-Jarrett-like approach to jazz and improvisation.” (Daily Telegraph, Australia)