Among the tell-tale signs of autism are a lack of social interaction combined with an elevated degree of alertness. Mustafa Said uses this state of mind in his composition as a point of reference from which to delve into the depths of the human self. This is intended as a counterpoint to the dominant influence which Western trends have exerted on the evolution of Arabic music for more than 100 years now. His musical ensemble, Asil, is dedicated to creating music that is relevant today while being rooted in the classical Arabic tradition. The composition “Autism”, based on traditional Arabic melodies, is one result of these efforts.
Born in Cairo in 1983, a musician and musicologist, Mustafa Said founded the Asil Ensemble for Contemporary Classical Arab Music in 2003, with which he has released three albums. Director of the Arab Music Archiving and Research foundation (AMAR), based in Lebanon. Teacher at the High Institute of Music at the Antonine University in Lebanon (2006-2014) and at the Arab Oud House in Cairo (2004-2006). He writes music for theater plays and films and has participated in several conferences and music workshops. He has also performed live at many festivals and venues internationally with ensembles or as a solo performer.
https://youtube.com/watch?v=TOwyXKfoBt0
Presented by the Humboldt Forum
Introduction in English by Kamal Kassar, AMAR Foundation, Beirut. Free admission, please register by 11 April 2018 if you wish to attend: www.events.humboldtforum.com
Autism. The Asil Ensemble for Arab Contemporary Classical Music
13.4.2018 | Doors 18:30 CET | Starts 19:00 CET
St. Elisabeth-Kirche | Invalidenstraße 3 | 10115 Berlin
www.humboldtforum.com/en/events/autism | www.mustafasaid.co | Event @ Facebook * Picture by Michael_Brydon
