Arab America Foundation Launches Arab America Ensemble to Celebrate Classical Arab Music

posted on: Sep 16, 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The Arab America Ensemble will make its debut performance at the Connect Empowerment Summit on Friday, November 6, during Fann Wa Tarab: Tarab Across Generations: The Songs That Raised Us the timeless music of the Arab world

WASHINGTON, DC— The Arab America Foundation today announced the launch of the Arab America Ensemble, a new musical initiative dedicated to preserving, performing, and celebrating the rich tradition of classical Arab music.

The Arab America Ensemble will bring together accomplished Arab American musicians and guest artists from across the United States to perform the beloved music of the Arab world. Its repertoire will highlight the songs, instruments, melodies, and musical traditions that have connected generations throughout the Arab world and the diaspora.

The ensemble will feature traditional instruments such as the oud, qanun, nay, violin, riqq, and tabla, with its size and configuration adapted for each performance. Guest vocalists and additional musicians may also join the ensemble for special concerts and cultural programs.

“Music is one of the most powerful ways we preserve our heritage and share it with others,” said Warren David, President of Arab America and Co-Founder of the Arab America Foundation. “For years, we have brought talented musicians together for our events. By establishing the Arab America Ensemble, we are creating a recognizable cultural institution that can grow, inspire audiences, and bring greater visibility to the beauty of classical Arab music.”

The word takht traditionally refers to a classical Arab musical ensemble. While the new initiative will carry the accessible public name Arab America Ensemble, its performances will remain rooted in the authentic spirit and traditions of the Arab takht.

The Arab America Ensemble is expected to perform at Arab America Foundation programs, including the Connect Empowerment Summit and National Arab American Heritage Month celebrations, as well as at universities, cultural institutions, festivals, embassies, and community events throughout the United States.

This year, the Arab America Ensemble will make its debut performance at the Connect Empowerment Summit on Friday, November 6, during Fann Wa Tarab: Tarab Across Generations: The Songs That Raised Us, celebrating the timeless music that has connected Arab families across generations.

The initiative will also provide opportunities for collaboration with vocalists, composers, educators, cultural organizations, and emerging musicians. Future programs may include themed concerts, educational presentations, intimate takht performances, and expanded orchestral productions.

The launch reflects the Arab America Foundation’s mission to promote Arab heritage, educate Americans about Arab identity, and connect and empower Arab Americans across the country.

For more information about the Arab America Ensemble, CLICK HERE.

About the Arab America Foundation

The Arab America Foundation is a nonprofit educational and cultural organization dedicated to promoting Arab heritage, educating Americans about Arab identity, and connecting and empowering Arab Americans. The Foundation leads National Arab American Heritage Month initiatives, Rising Leaders programs, cultural events, educational programs, and national community-building efforts throughout the United States.

For more information, visit ArabAmericaFoundation.org

Media Contact

Rita Yelda /Yelda Media
Arab America Foundation
ryelda@gmail.com
877-272-2944

Want more articles like this? Sign up for our e-newsletter!

Check out our blog here!