Ensemble Sarband is dedicated to musically bridging the gaps between East and West. In fact, the name “sarband” stems from Oriental music theory, denoting the improvised link of two compositions within a musical suite. Ensemble Sarband believes that music can provide an enlightened means of mutual respect, an example of understanding and acceptance - in short, a model for peace.

In the NY premiere of Passio-Compassio, the Ensemble Sarband puts together the dance of Sufi whirling dervishes,  a Baroque choir, saxophonists, and a string quartet for a musical voyage with Bach’s Passions in Arabic and jazz arrangements, combined with early Christian chant for a fitting close to the White Light Festival 2011 on November 19.

Ensemble Sarband will also be performing tomorrow at 10.30pm with Fadia el-Hage in Late Night Elegy.

Tomorrow night, Lebanese singer Fadia el-Hage joins the Ensemble Sarband to tell stories from the lives and history of Spanish Jews around the Mediterranean. The wide-ranging program comprises works spanning eight centuries of lullabies, romantic, and wedding songs.

Listen to this mesmerizing traditional Andalusian mouwashah sung by Fadia el-Hage.

Fadia el-Hage and Ensemble Sarband perform in the intimate Kaplan Penthouse as part of the White Light Festival.