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)

Simon Alami is a Canadian composer with a passion for blending different musical styles and traditions. He draws inspiration from master composers such as Ravel, Debussy, Bartok, Takemitsu, Stravinsky and others. Simon's compositional style is characterized by a fusion of diverse elements and a willingness to experiment with new forms of expression. Despite his job as a Manager at Hydro-Quebec, Simon dedicates his time to pursue his art and passion for classical music composition. He currently lives in Montreal, Canada and is a proud member of the Canadian League of Composers (CLC), Guilde des musiciens et musiciennes du Québec (GMMQ) and SOCAN.

Simon will be participating in the 5th edition of the Mostly Modern Festival at Saratoga Springs, NY June 2024

New tracks tagged #Sextet #Piano #Flute #Clarinet #Violin #Cello #Modern #Contemporary #Chamber Music