An Exploration of Egyptian Sufi Musical Traditions

The Middle East Institute is pleased to host Riad Abdel-Gawad, a composer, violinist, and musical educator for a discussion about the origins, current interpretations, and meaning of the Sufic musical tradition as it is practiced in Egypt today.  Abdel-Gawad is a disciple of the renowned Egyptian musician Abdo Dagher, and studied under him for more than a decade. Dagher's musical school is similar to that of north-Indian "gharana" traditions, and places emphasis on taqseem, or improvisation. This tradition has Medieval roots and is based on local Quranic and Sufi chant. Dr. Abdel-Gawad will be performing with his musical troupe from Cairo at the Davis Performing Arts Center at Georgetown University on Thursday, Sept. 23rd at 8:00pm.  More information about the performance is here.  He will also perform in duo at the McNeir Auditorium at Georgetown University on Friday, Sept. 24th at 1:15pm. More information about the performance is available here.