Who: Performing with Ensemble Diaspora (scaled down version)
What: Poems for Peace, as part of World Refugee Day
When: Tuesday June 20th, 12.50pm-1.05pm
Where: Reddacliff Place, Brisbane City (outside Brisbane Square Library)
Price: Free
Tomorrow is World Refugee Day, and I’m excited to be performing with Ensemble Diaspora (scaled-down version) as part of a larger program of music, spoken-word, and dance, called “Poems for Peace”.
I wasn't aware of World Refugee Day before being asked to perform, but after doing a little research, it’s a cause I can get behind. As the United Nations website says:
"On World Refugee Day, held every year on June 20th, we commemorate the strength, courage and perseverance of millions of refugees. This year, World Refugee Day also marks a key moment for the public to show support for families forced to flee."
I’ll be playing clarinet and singing with Cievash Arean (kamanche, goshmeh), Sebastian Flynn (fiddle), and Arash Zanganeh (daf). Our performance will include songs from Afghanistan, Iran, and original tunes composed by members of the band. Later in the day, I may switch to tin whistle to play a few Irish jigs with Sebastian.
Basically, it ticks both boxes for me - playing Middle Eastern music, AND Celtic music. I love playing music with these guys, so it’ll be a great day.
If you’re in the city, swing by on your lunchbreak and say hi!