Role

:

Composer  

Birth

:

1972 in Germany

 

Malek Jandali is a Syrian-American composer and pianist who has gained international recognition for his unique blend of classical and Middle Eastern music. Born on October 13, 1972, in Germany to Syrian parents, Jandali grew up in Homs, Syria, where he began playing the piano at the age of six. His father, a surgeon, and his mother, a pharmacist, encouraged his musical talents and enrolled him in the Arab Institute of Music in Damascus, where he studied under the renowned pianist and composer, Riyad Sukar. Jandali's early exposure to both Western and Middle Eastern music had a profound impact on his musical style. He was particularly drawn to the works of Beethoven, Chopin, and Mozart, as well as the traditional music of Syria, Lebanon, and Egypt. He began composing his own music at the age of 14 and went on to study music theory and composition at the Higher Institute of Music in Damascus. In 1992, Jandali was awarded a scholarship to study music at the University of Arkansas in the United States. He earned a Bachelor of Music degree in piano performance and a Master of Music degree in composition. During his time in the United States, Jandali was exposed to a wide range of musical styles, including jazz, blues, and rock, which further influenced his musical style. Jandali's compositions are characterized by their fusion of Western classical music with Middle Eastern melodies and rhythms. His works often incorporate traditional Middle Eastern instruments, such as the oud, qanun, and ney, as well as electronic and orchestral elements. His music has been described as "a bridge between East and West" and has been praised for its ability to bring people of different cultures together. One of Jandali's most notable works is his "Watani Ana" ("I Am My Homeland") symphony, which he composed in 2011 in response to the Syrian civil war. The symphony, which features a choir and traditional Middle Eastern instruments, is a tribute to the people of Syria and their struggle for freedom and democracy. The piece has been performed in concert halls around the world and has become a symbol of hope for the Syrian people. Jandali has also composed a number of other works that have received critical acclaim. His "Echoes from Ugarit" symphony, which was inspired by the ancient city of Ugarit in Syria, features a choir and traditional Middle Eastern instruments and has been performed by orchestras around the world. His "Emessa" concerto, which was inspired by the ancient city of Homs, features a solo piano and orchestra and has been praised for its emotional depth and virtuosity. In addition to his work as a composer, Jandali is also an accomplished pianist. He has performed in concert halls around the world, including Carnegie Hall in New York City and the Berlin Philharmonic in Germany. He has also collaborated with a number of other musicians, including the Syrian singer Lena Chamamyan and the American jazz pianist Kenny Barron. Jandali's music has been recognized with a number of awards and honors. In 2011, he was awarded the Freedom of Expression Award by the City of Florence, Italy, in recognition of his work as a composer and human rights activist. In 2013, he was named a Cultural Ambassador for the City of Homs, Syria, in recognition of his contributions to the city's cultural heritage.

More....