Modern Arab-Andalusian concert in Paris

A concert showcasing a modern interpretation of Arab-Andalusian music will take place this Wednesday in Paris. The event aims to bridge historical musical traditions with contemporary styles, offering a fresh take on an ancient genre.

Mehdi Haddab's musical fusion

The concert features the passionate rock musician Mehdi Haddab, a Franco-Algerian "oud hero" known for his work with DuOud and Mademoiselle. Haddab plays the oud, a traditional stringed instrument, alongside bass, drums, and synths, blending classical and modern sounds.

Meryem Koufi's artistic contribution

Singer-songwriter Meryem Koufi, an Algerian artist known for her expertise with the kouitra lute, will also perform. Koufi comes from a classical musical background but has chosen to explore new creative directions, moving away from traditional paths.

Series continuation and historical roots

The concert is part of a series that began with Nuba Nova 1 in 2021, which featured the great malouf singer Hamdi Benani from Annaba. This latest performance continues the exploration of Arab-Andalusian music's rich legacy.

Structure and origins of the nouba

The performance draws on the structure of the emblematic nouba, a musical and poetic suite that originated in the 9th century at the court of Cordoba. The nouba retains its traditional five-movement structure, percussive polyphony, and melodic ornaments, preserving its historical essence while adapting it for modern audiences.