Episode #63: Poetry and Music of Al-Andalus, Part Two

“…despite all the tumult, and despite all of the uprisings and the wars and the many kings coming in left and right, this beautiful poetry not only was created there but it flourished. I guess its a testament to hope, in that people can still find the time, the energy and the inspiration to create something beautiful in such a dire and difficult situation, and that, I guess that for me is one of the most profound takeaways from this poetry.”

“I hope that audiences have a sense that even in very difficult times, people can still create things of beauty, things that have meaning and that last, and by writing this piece, I guess we’re honoring that, and in some way I hope that comes across.”

This week is the second episode of a two-part exploration of the poetry and music of al-Andalus. Produced by Jasmine Erdener, this episode features interviews with world-renowned composers Kareem Roustom and Kinan Abou-afach.

In the last episode we discussed the music and poetry of Andalusia, which originated in Islamic Spain, or Al-Andalus, during the 8^th-15^th centuries. After this period ended, the people who left Spain continued to sing these poems and play music in this style. Six centuries later, this poetry and this historical moment are still deeply resonant with many people in the Arab world.

Al-Bustan Seeds of Culture’s project “Words Adorned: Andalusian Poetry and Music” is made possible by the Pew Center for Arts & Heritage. More info at: http://albustanseeds.org/digital/wordsadorned/. This podcast is developed with WPEB Radio and Scribe Video Center.

Music: Drub Al-Hayat / The Paths Of Life, featuring Sonia M’Barek from the 2014 album Rihla: Live In Philadelphia produced by Al-Bustan

Photo by Glenna Barlow: https://www.flickr.com/photos/rose_des_vents/
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