Ahmed Tofiq, Iraqi violinist, created the Bahar Ensemble, a professional Middle Eastern quintet of local players, and the Orchestra Rouh, youth oriented, in 2017. In order to extend the opportunity to play this music to more people in the community, Beau and Ahmed developed the Bayati Ensemble, which is open to K-College and WMU students for course credit and to community musicians. This is the first ensemble of its kind in Kalamazoo.
The Bayati Ensemble is intended to engage Kalamazoo student and community musicians in the study and performance of Middle Eastern music, and to create greater awareness and appreciation of Middle Eastern music and culture through concerts.
Requirements
No audition or knowledge of Middle Eastern music is required, though some prior experience on an instrument is expected.
Rehearsal Schedule
Day/Time:
Tuesdays, 6:30 – 8:30pm
Location:
Band Room – FAB11 – Light Fine Arts Building
Contact
For more information on the Bayati Ensemble please email Beau Bothwell, co-director:
