Piano Quintet No 1 - 3rd Movement Drums of Thunder (Virtual Pre-Premiere)

Piano Quintet No 1 - 1st Movement Brimming River (Virtual Pre-Premiere)

This piano quintet is deeply rooted in Afro-Cuban music and its spiritual forces. Each movement represents a deity called Orisha, and showcases the diverse rhythms and melodies of Afro-Cuban culture, with the Orisha Shango, the lord of drums and thunder, serving as the focal point.

The second movement, "Raging Volcano," is divided into three sections. The first section builds up to the eruption, representing Agayu, the master of volcanoes and the road. The fast-paced and dissonant eruption is followed by a haunting descent of dissonant strings, with the piano gradually fading away like a heartbeat, leaving an image of desolation.

Piano Quintet No 1 - 2nd Movement Raging Volcano (Virtual Pre-Premiere)

"Tea with Debussy & Pärt in Casablanca" is a musical dream that bloomed during my vacation in Havana, Cuba. Inspired by classical masterpieces from Arvo Pärt and Claude Debussy, I envisioned an imaginary encounter with these esteemed composers in Casablanca, over Moroccan tea.

This piece is not an imitation of their styles but rather a heartfelt conversation between us. It embodies the essence of typical conversations in Morocco, where we all speak at the same time, meandering from topic to topic, and experiencing numerous changes of atmospheres, tempi, textures, and fragments of thematic material.

It begins with minimalist touches, a nod to Pärt's recent works, where the piano introduces serene arpeggios, intertwining with heartfelt viola melodies. As we delve into our tea time, I incorporate some of Debussy's harmonic vocabulary. 

Throughout our harmonious dialogue, the piece mirrors the dynamic nature of conversations in Morocco. We experience moments of collective excitement, where the music swells with vibrant textures and lively tempi, as if everyone is speaking at once. Themes and motifs emerge and intertwine, mirroring the meandering nature of our discussion as we navigate from one topic to another.

As our musical journey unfolds, our collaboration celebrates cultural fusion, weaving together Pärt, Debussy, and my artistic zest. Each voice contributes to the narrative, inviting moments of wonder and contemplation through our shared inspirations.

Tea with Debussy and Pärt in Casablanca for Clarinet in A and Piano Virtual Pre-Release Version

"Obsidian Reflections" serves as a symphonic fresco, encapsulating the essence of obsidian chrysalis within a modern orchestra. Inspired by the dual nature of this intriguing rock, the composition unfolds as a singular journey, transitioning from somber reflections on ecological challenges to an optimistic embrace of transformative potential.
The music, devoid of distinct movements, seamlessly progresses from dark, mysterious tones to luminous and hopeful harmonies. This symphonic narrative reflects the metaphorical journey from shadows cast by environmental concerns to the intrinsic human ability to find light amidst darkness.
Obsidian, with its smooth texture, serves as a metaphor for resilience and transformation, echoing qualities within both the natural world and ourselves. "Obsidian Reflections" is a continuous musical dialogue, exploring the delicate balance between despair and hope. It invites listeners to reflect on our interconnectedness and inspires a shared commitment to nurturing a brighter, more sustainable future.

The Score won the 1st Prize at the 6th Swiss International Music Competition in Lugano on April 2024

Using Dorico 5 and BBC Symphony Orchestra Library.

Obsidian Reflections - BBC Symphony Orchestra Library (Pre-Release Version)

0:00 - I. Brimming River
5:30 - III. Drums of Thunder

AMERICAN MODERN ENSEMBLE
Mason Lubert, conductor
Sean Claire, violin
Martin Medrano, violin
JJ Johnson, viola
Dave Eggar, cello
Amir Farid, piano

MOSTLY MODERN FESTIVAL
Skidmore College, Arthur Zankel Music Hall
Saratoga Springs, New York (USA)
6/9/2023

Release Sep 1, 2023  ARTHUR ZANKEL MUSIC CENTER

LINKS
Festival: https://www.mostlymodernfestival.org
Ensembles-In-Residence: https://mostlymodernfestival.org/ense...
Conductor: https://masonlubert.com/
Recorded by Arts Laureate: https://www.artslaureate.com

2023-06-09

Piano Quintet No. 1 - Simon Alami | Mostly Modern Festival

"Tea with Debussy & Pärt in Casablanca" is a musical dream that bloomed during my vacation in Havana, Cuba. Inspired by classical masterpieces from Arvo Pärt and Claude Debussy, I envisioned an imaginary encounter with these esteemed composers in Casablanca, over Moroccan tea.

Commissioned by a dear friend and talented violist Vincent Delorme, this piece is not an imitation of their styles but rather a heartfelt conversation between us. It embodies the essence of typical conversations in Morocco, where we all speak at the same time, meandering from topic to topic, and experiencing numerous changes of atmospheres, tempi, textures, and fragments of thematic material.

It begins with minimalist touches, a nod to Pärt's recent works, where the piano introduces serene arpeggios, intertwining with heartfelt viola melodies. As we delve into our tea time, I incorporate some of Debussy's harmonic vocabulary. 

Throughout our harmonious dialogue, the piece mirrors the dynamic nature of conversations in Morocco. We experience moments of collective excitement, where the music swells with vibrant textures and lively tempi, as if everyone is speaking at once. Themes and motifs emerge and intertwine, mirroring the meandering nature of our discussion as we navigate from one topic to another.

As our musical journey unfolds, our collaboration celebrates cultural fusion, weaving together Pärt, Debussy, and my artistic zest. Each voice contributes to the narrative, inviting moments of wonder and contemplation through our shared inspirations.

Tea with Debusy and Pärt in Casablanca

Tea With Debussy and Pärt in Casablanca - World Premiere (Live Performance)

This excerpt is extracted from a full live concert of Simon Alami and The Impressionists. 
Marie-Claire Vaillancourt (violin), Jeanne Côté (violin), Vincent Delorme (viola) and Benjamin Sutton (cello)
Live recorded on May 21th, 2023 at Joseph Rouleau Hall in Montreal

Alami and the Impressionists

String Quartet: I. Allegro moderato – très doux - Maurice Ravel | Alami & the Impressionists

This piece will be performed at the Mostly Modern Festival next June by the American Modern Ensemble. This is a Work in Progress Mock Up before the Premiere.

Program Note:
This chamber piece delves into the vibrant musical traditions of Morocco, particularly those of the Amazigh people, the heart and soul of the Atlas Mountains. The earthquake of September 8th, 2023, cast a long shadow, especially in these mountainous regions where many Amazigh people reside. While the loss of life across Morocco was significant, the music itself transcends sorrow.

It explores the transformative power of music in the face of loss, reflecting the Amazigh belief in celebrating life even after a period of mourning. In their culture, grief eventually gives way to music and dance, a beautiful way to honour departed loved ones. This spirit of resilience and celebration infuses the very essence of this piece.

The evocative melodies of the High Atlas, often accompanied by unique percussion wind and stringed instruments, become a testament to the enduring spirit of the Amazigh people.  This work serves as the first movement of a larger suite exploring the rich tapestry of Moroccan music. It's a personal interpretation, where the threads of tradition and contemporary influences are intricately woven together.

While this piece aspires to offer a humble tribute to those lost in the earthquake and celebrate the enduring strength and vibrant cultural heritage of the Amazigh people and Moroccans in general, it ultimately seeks to foster a cross-cultural conversation. This creative interplay, however modest a contribution, seeks to transcend borders, enriching the global artistic landscape and building bridges of understanding across diverse cultures. Ultimately, this composition is a celebration of life, resilience, and the unifying power of music.

Moroccan Dances - 1. Hight Atlas The Majestic (Virtual Pre-Release)

The profound emotional impact of the September 8, 2023 earthquake in Morocco inspired this composition as a tribute to the victims and a celebration of the nation’s rich musical heritage. Initially conceived as a sextet, the piece was premiered on June 9th by the American Modern Ensemble under the baton of Eric Bodnar. It subsequently underwent a transformative journey when my friend and fellow composer, Ian Weise, proposed an adaptation for Pierrot ensemble during the Mostly Modern Festival in Saratoga Springs, June 2024. His vision of a 2025 concert featuring this arrangement ignited a new creative path.

This piece stands as the inaugural movement of a larger suite exploring the multifaceted layers of Moroccan musical tradition, with a particular focus on the evocative melodies of the High Atlas. By reinterpreting these melodies through the unique lens of the Pierrot ensemble—flute, clarinet, violin, cello, and piano—I seek to create a contemporary musical dialogue that honors the past while forging a new path forward.

Through this composition, I hope to offer a poignant and evocative musical experience that resonates with listeners on both an emotional and intellectual level.

Moroccan Dances - I Hight Atlas The Majestic (Pierrot Ensemble Pre-Release Version)

Music by Simon Alami
Tasha Warren, clarinet
Yun Hao, piano

MOSTLY MODERN FESTIVAL
Skidmore College, Arthur Zankel Music Hall
Saratoga Springs, New York (USA)
6/18/2024

LINKS
Festival: https://www.mostlymodernfestival.org
Ensembles-In-Residence: https://mostlymodernfestival.org/ense...
Composer: www.simonalami.com
Recorded by Arts Laureate: https://www.artslaureate.com

Tea With Debussy And Pärt In Casablanca (Clarinet &  Piano World Premiere)

Moroccan Dances (World Premiere) 
Music by Simon Alami  I. High Atlas the Majestic  
AMERICAN MODERN ENSEMBLE 
Erin Bodnar, conductor 
Lindsey Goodman, flute 
Tasha Warren Yehuda, clarinet 
Matthew Ward, percussion 
Geoffrey Burleson, piano 
Katherine Cheng, violin 
Dave Eggar, cello  

MOSTLY MODERN FESTIVAL Skidmore College, Arthur Zankel Music Hall Saratoga Springs, New York (USA) 6/7/2024  LINKS Festival: https://www.mostlymodernfestival.org 
Ensembles-In-Residence: https://mostlymodernfestival.org/ensembles-in-residence
Composer: https://sites.google.com/view/simonalamicomposer/
Recorded by Arts Laureate: https://www.artslaureate.com

Moroccan Dances - I High Atlas the Majestic (World Premiere)

Not all things fade by nature. Some are made to disappear.

Evanescent Frequency mirrors a world where decay is no longer organic but imposed, where lifespans—of objects, ideas, and even sound—are carefully engineered to be short-lived. In nature, resonance lingers, and silence comes gradually. But in an age of programmed obsolescence, disappearance is manufactured, ensuring that what was once essential is discarded before its time.

The music unfolds in this same manufactured cycle. It begins with fragments—small pulses of energy, scattered textures that gradually coalesce, gaining complexity and momentum. Harmonies expand, orchestration thickens, and layers accumulate, reflecting the illusion of permanence and progress.

At its peak, the structure begins to dissolve. But this is not destruction—it is an unraveling, an enforced stillness that overtakes what was once vibrant. The density of sound fades into weightlessness, harmonies drift apart, and resonance becomes ghostly, as if the music itself is slipping away into the unreachable. The frequencies do not end abruptly but instead dissolve into an ethereal quiet, mirroring the way things vanish from use yet never fully disappear.

Evanescent Frequency is a meditation on impermanence, on the forces that decide what is allowed to endure and what is designed to be forgotten. It asks us to listen—to what fades, to what remains, and to the silence left behind.

Evanescent Frequency for Orchestra (BBC Symphony Orchestra Virtual Library_Pre-Release)

Symphonic Dances - 1. Call of the Reeds | for Wind Symphony Orchestra (Work in Progress)

Live Performance by PANdemonium4 Flute Quartet on Aug 3rd, 2025. Sylvia Vance Concert Series - Church of the Master united Methodist - Westerville, Ohio, USA

Inspired by a night in Morocco's desert, 'Dust in the Wind' evokes a desert storm through a rich palette of flute techniques. Fluttering textures, breathy tones, and sharp bursts of air recreate the escalating intensity of the wind. As the storm fades, the piece gently returns to serene tranquility.

Dust in the Wind for Flute Quartet - Live Performance World Premiere

Obsidian Reflections for Small Orchestra - Marco Polo Orchestra (Live World Premiere)

World Premiered by Katherine Cheng	(violin) and Jeongmin Oak (piano) Kilbourn	Hall,	Eastman	School of Music Rochester,	NY | 
Friday, November	22,	2024

Program Notes:

“Tea with Debussy & Pärt in Casablanca” is a musical dream born from a vacation in Havana, Cuba. This piece imagines an encounter with the esteemed composers Arvo Pärt and Claude Debussy in the vibrant city of Casablanca, over Moroccan tea. It is not an imitation of their styles but rather a heartfelt conversation between us, infused with elements of both composers’ musical languages. Originally commissioned by Vincent Delorme for viola and piano, the piece was premiered in Montreal. The clarinet version, performed by double Grammy-nominated clarinetist Tasha Warren and pianist Yun Hao, premiered at the Mostly Modern Festival in Saratoga Springs, NY, in June 2024. Katherine Cheng, inspired by both the clarinet version and her experience performing in the sextet premiere of the first movement of my Suite “Moroccan Dances,” felt a strong connection to my compositional style. Her expressive playing and nuanced interpretation are well-suited to the music’s blend of minimalist and impressionistic elements. Katherine’s excitement about this collaboration led to the creation of this violin and piano version, marking the beginning of our artistic partnership. The piece begins with minimalist touches, a nod to Pärt’s recent works, where the piano introduces serene arpeggios that intertwine with expressive violin melodies. As the music progresses, it incorporates Debussy’s harmonic richness, weaving a tapestry of sound that captures the essence of typical Moroccan conversations—dynamic, lively, and filled with unexpected turns.

Tea with Debussy and Pärt in Casablanca for Violin and Piano - World Premiere

Symphonic Dances - 2. Snowprints of a New Beginning | for Wind Symphony Orchestra (Work in Progress)

Dedicated to my dear friend musician and awesome flutist Yuki Isami.

Majestic Mountains for Japanese flute (virtual instrument playing)

Simon Alami is a Canadian composer with a passion for blending different musical styles and traditions. He draws inspiration from master composers. Simon's compositional style is characterized by a fusion of diverse elements and a willingness to experiment with new forms of expression. He currently lives in Montreal, Canada and is a proud member of the Canadian League of Composers (CLC), Canadian Music Center CMC and SOCAN.

Simon Alami Composer

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