Role

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Composer  

 

Kinan Azmeh is a Syrian clarinetist and composer who has gained international recognition for his unique blend of classical and Middle Eastern music. Born in Damascus in 1976, Azmeh grew up in a family of musicians and was exposed to music from a young age. His father was a clarinetist and his mother was a pianist, and they encouraged him to pursue music as a career. Azmeh began playing the clarinet at the age of six and quickly showed a talent for the instrument. He studied at the Damascus High Institute of Music and later at the Juilliard School in New York City, where he earned a master's degree in music. During his time at Juilliard, Azmeh was exposed to a wide range of musical styles and began to experiment with blending classical and Middle Eastern music. One of Azmeh's most notable works is his composition "Suite for Improvisor and Orchestra," which was commissioned by the West-Eastern Divan Orchestra in 2013. The piece features Azmeh on clarinet and incorporates elements of Arabic music, jazz, and classical music. It has been performed by orchestras around the world, including the New York Philharmonic and the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra. Another highlight of Azmeh's career is his collaboration with the Silk Road Ensemble, a group of musicians founded by cellist Yo-Yo Ma that seeks to promote cultural exchange through music. Azmeh has performed with the ensemble on several occasions and has contributed his own compositions to their repertoire. In addition to his work as a composer and performer, Azmeh is also a dedicated educator. He has taught at several institutions, including the Damascus High Institute of Music and the City University of New York, and has conducted workshops and masterclasses around the world. Throughout his career, Azmeh has remained committed to using music as a means of promoting understanding and dialogue between different cultures. His compositions and performances reflect his belief in the power of music to transcend boundaries and bring people together.

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