Syrian Vocalist Gaida to Perform in Ann Arbor

posted on: Jul 1, 2010

“[Gaida’s] plaintive, gauzy vocals effectively disarmed listeners” — Chicago Tribune

New York-based Syrian vocalist and composer Gaida performs innovative interpretations of classic and folk songs from the Arabic repertoire, original compositions, as well as a freestyle improvisation over Arabic/African/Latin grooves. Her ensemble “Levantine Indulgence” — named after her debut CD — includes world-recognized musicians such as trumpeter Amir ElSaffar, oudist Zafer Tawil, pianist George Dulin, percussionist Tony Advivo, Tareq Abboushi on buzuq, and Jennifer Vincent on upright bass.

Gaida is known for her original and highly personal style marked by great emotional intensity. In her debut album “Levantine Indulgence,” she exposes her innermost emotions using her powerful yet refined and expressive voice. Each song is at its core about love, longing and caring. In Gaida’s own words, “I will always sing with tears close to my eyes, beats pounding my fragile heart, and care wrapping the world.” The wide range of musical styles heard within Gaida’s music reflects the diversity of her background. One song may capture the vocal finesse and tenderness of Fairuz, or highly ornate vocal stylings reminiscent of Oum Kalthoum, contrasted by a slow, sultry blues number, followed by a Brazilian, samba-like piece. These various styles flow together organically and naturally; tied together by Gaida’s depth of soul and her evocative and expressive voice, which transcends genre and drives directly into the listener’s heart. At home in New York, she has performed at Lincoln Center, Joe’s Pub, Le Poisson Rouge and BAM, while outside N.Y. she has played at prestigious venues/festivals such as Lotus Fest, the Kennedy Center and the Arab-American National Museum. Gaida recorded and appeared in Jonathan Demme’s recent film “Rachel Getting Married.”

It will take place on Saturday, August 14 at 7 pm & 9 pm.

Where:
Kerrytown Concert House
415 N. 4th Ave.
Ann Arbor, MI

Call 734-769-299 or visit www.kerrytownconcerthouse.com to reserve tickets