The Viola al-Mashura recording project

“By showing that America values the diversity of cultures, we may be able to counter negative images of our own culture and build stronger ties of understanding and peace throughout the world.”

-Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, 1998

As a classical violist and a former Arabic linguist for the Army, I have been saddened and troubled that the modern classical Egyptian sound has yet to be represented in the diversifying Western program.

In the words of Egyptian composer Gamal Abdel Rahim:

“It was inconceivable to live in the twentieth century and restrict ourselves to techniques of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. It was equally inconceivable that a new Egyptian musical expression can be detached from the roots and heart of its musical culture.”

With great excitement, I am pleased to announce that I’ve teamed up with pianist Melissa Terrall to release a groundbreaking CD under Acis Productions. This collection will showcase a powerful fusion of Egyptian and Western classical music, blending both worlds in harmony.

This project, titled Viola al-Mashura (الفيولا المسحورة) – The Enchanted Viola, represents our vision of creating connections through the beauty of music, even in a world that too often seeks division. Join us in bringing this meaningful project to life for Fall 2025!

Viola al-Mashura (الفيولا المسحورة)
The Enchanted Viola

This concert tour and album program brings together essential works from the Egyptian classical music tradition, tracing its development over the last century. These iconic pieces are paired with Western compositions that echo similar styles, histories, or characters. The CD also features several premieres, including a commissioned work by third-generation Egyptian composer Sherif Mohie Eldin and a world-premiere composition by Portland-based Marek Woods-Harris, blending the cultural richness of both Egyptian and Western classical music in a truly unique and captivating listening experience.