Irtijal is organized by MILL, a non-profit association founded in 2000 by musicians Mazen Kerbaj and Sharif Sehnaoui, with the intent of promoting contemporary and experimental practices in music, and assisting projects that do not fit within the Lebanese mainstream, yet still present undeniable artistic value.

The 20th century has witnessed a strong worldwide spread of new and alternative musical styles, which in turn constitute an important aspect of the historical evolution of music as an art form. MILL was created to boost and support these practices in Lebanon: free improvisation, free jazz, contemporary classical music, post-rock, experimental electronic music, sound-art as well as many other attempts to explore new and uncharted territories in sound.

In the same manner, and thanks to the importance of Beirut on the cultural map of the Arab world, we strive to extend these ideas to neighboring Arab countries. With a keen eye on these practices, Irtijal is a yearly meeting that focuses on presenting works by both local and foreign artists, all the while encouraging interaction between them. The festival does not confine itself to any specific style or genre of music, but rather tries to advocate an experimental and innovative approach to each and every genre it showcases.

Irtijal has achieved considerable growth during its 15 years of existence, going from a one-day festival in 2001 to 4-6 days since 2003; the number of concerts has grown from 4 to 20, while that of international guest artists from 5 to 30. Over the past 15 years Irtijal has unquestionably inscribed itself as the main annual event for new and innovative music in the Lebanese artistic scene, and is rightly considered as the largest structure of its kind in the Arab world.

Vocal composer // UK
NYX Electronic Drone Choir

Soon: Hiraeth by tarxun and Siavash Hakim out Nov 5
Latest:
Oblique by Corder & Yantis out Sept 17
Sounds of Mmabolela - Nikki Sheth - out Sept 3
The Yearning - Liz Helman
A Long Wait - Paula García Stone

Violent Blondes's Upcoming Gigs
Sat 07 Jul, 18 
EarToGround x Civil Disobedience, Corsica Studios, London, United Kingdom

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Annabel, Nicola and Techno.

Andre Soueid, a versatile violinist and DJ/producer from Beirut, Lebanon, discovered his passion for music at six, mastering the violin and experimenting with various styles. With over 1.14 million YouTube subscribers, 140 million views, and 1 million Instagram followers, he has gained international acclaim.

Expanding into DJing and electronic music production, Andre blends electronic beats with English, Greek, Arabic, French, Turkish, and global hits, creating captivating remixes that showcase his innovative artistry. His dynamic live sets, featuring virtuosic violin performances, have earned him global recognition at prestigious events and clubs.

As an accomplished producer, Andre has released successful singles, albums, and collaborations praised for their technical mastery and emotional depth. His unique blend of traditional and contemporary styles continues to push boundaries, cementing his place as a standout artist worldwide.

Experimental composer, producer and multidisciplinary artist working with sound, film, sculpture, installation and DIY electronics. I also create hand-made acoustic and electronic instruments from recycled natural materials and found objects.

I am interested in acts of translation and transformation, using sound as a way to describe visual, physical and emotional experience. My work often explores the idea of translating landscapes into sound and combines elements of ambient and electroacoustic music, minimalism and musique concrète. 

Contact: gwension.art@gmail.com

https://open.spotify.com/artist/5RODYaIqx44fsFQBNT7ayt?si=-dV87AkzTPCI-oCvaHwZTw

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