In the realm of Middle and Near-Eastern Instrumental music, not many indivi… Read Full Bio ↴In the realm of Middle and Near-Eastern Instrumental music, not many individuals are able to receive as much widespread acknowledgement as being the "The Best", as do Simon Shaheen (Ud or Oud), and the Lebanese born Ali Jihad Racy (Buzuq).

Dr. Racy's now famous composition Ancient Egypt and his other subsequent achievements have practically re-defined the role that traditional Middle-Eastern styles and sounds can have in contemporary instrumental music.

Simon Shaheen, also an extremely active, internationally renowned master performer and stylist is becoming increasingly recognized as a powerful force in World Music with his brilliant interpretations of Arabic music, both as a soloist and with his group. These two master musicians, each of whom possess not only incredible talent and skill, but who are also informed by a vast knowledge of the styles and traditions of both Eastern and Western music, perform here together, in a memorable journey into traditional Arabic instrumental improvisation. (Taqasim)