From Euphrates to Mississippi: Poetry & Oud Whisper of Arabian Nights
Join the Iraqi and American Reconciliation Project and the Germanic-American Institute for an afternoon of poetry, music, and delicious treats out on the GAI lawn.
This unique event celebrates the deep-rooted connection between Arabic poetry and Oud. The oud-is an ancient stringed instrument central to Middle Eastern musical traditions. Through live performances of poetry and Oud music, the Iraqi and American Reconciliation Project and the Germanic-American Institute invites audiences to experience the soul of the Arabian nights- where language becomes music, and music becomes a form of storytelling and artistic expression. Traditional Germanic music will also be performed, offering a rich, cultural counterpoint and honoring the musical heritage of the Germanic world.
Whether you’re a lover of poetry, music, or cultural fusion, From Euphrates to Mississippi promises a night of introspection, enchantment, and cross-cultural connection.
Featured Artists:
Fadel K. Jabr – Fadel is an Iraqi poet, translator, and writer. He graduated from the MFA program in Poetry in Translation at Drew University in New Jersey 2015. In 1987, he graduated from the Translation Department of Al-Mustansiriya University in Baghdad, Iraq. He has lived in the US since 1998. Jabr has published six books of poetry in Arabic.
Esmael Alawadi – Esmael is an Oud musician and holds a Ph.D. in the Evaluation of Vocal Performance (Solo and Choral). He possesses practical experience in performance and auditions with various orchestral ensembles. a certified instructor for the subjects of Expressive and Embodied Singing Sciences at the Al Yasat Institute, Abu Dhabi. He also has experience in the scientific judging and evaluation of vocal performers.
Ryan Charles Cihlar – Ryan Cihlar was raised on the Door County Peninsula of Wisconsin and fell in love with the accordion after several trips to Europe. As he’s a fan of traveling and good times, his goal is to celebrate both.
Ryan’s Facebook and Instagram – @ryancharlescihlar
Eryn Tvete – Minnesota native, Eryn Tvete, is a classically trained singer who performs a variety of music from opera and folk songs to musical theatre and jazz. She currently performs with the Minnesota Opera Chorus, the Minnesänger, is the substitute vocalist for the Elk River German Band and Beasley’s Big Band, and she is the host/managing director of Opera on Tap Twin Cities. She loves spreading joy to others through music.
This event will take place rain or shine. In the case of rain, the event will take place inside the GAI Haus (not ADA accessible).
Adults: $10 / Children (under 12): $5
This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Metropolitan Regional Arts Council, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.
Photo by Ali Hilal
1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
