The Cornell Middle Eastern Music Ensemble (CMEME) is collaborating with Cornell’s Arabic language program to provide an opportunity for students to practice their Arabic while learning more about Arab culture through music. Members of all skill levels and experience are welcome to join the group, which meets Mondays from 7-9 PM in Lincoln Hall, room B21. Contact Nikolai Ruskin for more information.
Nikolai will be taking the ensemble in a more focused and traditional direction, by concentrating on Arabic vocal music and instruments. The group’s primary instrumentation consists of the takht ensemble: oud, nay, qanoun, violin, and riq, darbuka, duff, and the additional string section of viola, cello, and bass. The music of CMEME will be largely based around Egypt and the Levant, including Muwashahat, classical songs such as Um Kalthoum, and folk songs or songs from other regions that are compatible with a traditional takht ensemble. CMEME has some instruments available to loan on request.
