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Go topBy: Layan Srour / Arab America Contributing Writer Translated by Layan Srour How did you first get into music? When I was around ten years old, my brother brought home an accordion. I guess he gave up on that hobby, so I started playing it, and I fell in love with it. I learned everything … Continued
By: Layan Srour / Arab America Contributing Writer Mona’s musical journey is deeply rooted in heritage, resistance, and a relentless drive to push artistic boundaries. An internationally renowned Palestinian-American artist, singer, and songwriter, she is known for her pioneering projects and dedication to elevating Arabic music on the world stage. Raised between Chicago and Palestine … Continued
By: Layan Srour / Arab America Contributing Writer Nano Raies’s musical path is rooted in perseverance, self-discovery, and breaking boundaries. Hailing from Syria, Nano’s artistry fuses traditional Arabic sounds with bold modern influences. Her journey began in a home filled with the music of both Western and Eastern masters, inspiring a deep connection to her … Continued
By: Layan Srour / Arab America Contributing Writer Layth Sidiq is a Grammy-nominated violinist, composer, educator, and the artistic director of the New York Arab Orchestra. Born in Iraq and raised in Jordan, in a musical household that welcomed artists from across the world, he began his violin studies at the age of four. Trained … Continued
By: Layan Srour / Arab America Contributing Writer Wanees Zarour is a Palestinian composer, violinist, oud, and buzuq player based in Chicago. Born and raised in Ramallah, he was immersed in music from a young age, surrounded by a family of music lovers. Over the past two decades, he’s become a central figure in Chicago’s … Continued
By: Layan Srour / Arab America Contributing Writer Roula David is a creative force in Detroit’s music and nightlife scene, known for her visionary leadership at Spot Lite and UFO Factory. Growing up between Arab and American cultures, she developed a deep, lifelong connection to music that spans hip-hop, house, soul, and jazz. Roula’s journey … Continued
By: Layan Srour / Arab America Contributing Writer Zekkereya El-magharbel is a musician, designer, theorist, composer, and educator, originally from Los Angeles, California, and now based in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Raised in an Egyptian household, Zekkereya’s work seamlessly blends diverse cultural influences, drawing from both their heritage and the broader musical world. Zekkereya’s journey reflects … Continued
By: Layan Srour / Arab America Contributing Writer Dina Amin is a Palestinian filmmaker and musician whose work explores identity, memory, and home. Rooted in her experiences growing up in Palestine, Dina blends documentary, experimental film, and genre-fluid music to tell deeply personal stories. Now based in Los Angeles, she continues to draw inspiration from … Continued
By: Layan Srour / Arab America Contributing Writer Firas Zreik’s musical journey is one of passion, tradition, and exploration. A Palestinian composer and qanun player, he blends the rich sounds of Arabic music with influences from jazz and beyond. Raised in a family of musicians, Firas was immersed in music from a young age, which … Continued
By: Layan Srour / Arab America Content Writer Nasri Shamseddine was a renowned Lebanese singer and actor. He was celebrated for his deep, resonant voice and significant contributions to Lebanese folk music and was a longtime collaborator with musicians across the Middle East. He performed in musicals, plays, and films that captured the essence of … Continued
By: Layan Srour / Arab America Contributing Writer Sommer Forrester’s journey through music and identity is one of blending cultures, disciplines, and personal resilience. Sommer is an associate professor at the University of Massachusetts, Boston, where she leads the music education program. Raised on a rich tapestry of Arabic music and Western classical influences, she … Continued
By: Layan Srour / Arab America Contributing Writer Palestinian American violinist and composer Mike Khoury moves fluidly between rock bands, orchestras, jazz ensembles, and original works—all while staying deeply connected to his heritage. Based in Redford, Michigan, his music reflects a lifelong blend of influences, from traditional Arabic sounds to avant-garde experimentation. For Khoury, music … Continued
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