BlueShore at CapU presents Rahim AlHaj, Iraqi-American master of the oud, and his trio, at Mel Lehan Hall at St. James, February 17

AlHaj has performed shows all over the world, and collaborated with artists such as R.E.M.’s Peter Buck, guitarist Bill Frisell, and the Kronos Quartet.

SPONSORED POST BY Blueshore at CapU Theatre

The Rahim AlHaj Trio: left to right, Nicholas Baker, Rahim AlHaj, and Sourena Sefati.

As an Iraqi immigrant to the United States, virtuoso oud musician and composer Rahim AlHaj uses his musical talents to spread hope and peace. The twice Grammy-nominated performer—who brings his trio to the St. James Community Centre on February 17—describes his music as a sonic statement of friendship, understanding, and an acknowledgement of humanity’s oneness.

“No matter where in the world it’s played, music brings us together and unites us,” he says. “It’s the most beautiful, effective way to remind us we are all human beings.”

AlHaj has performed hundreds of shows all over the world, released a string of albums for the Smithsonian Folkways label, and collaborated with artists such as R.E.M.’s Peter Buck, guitarist Bill Frisell, and the Kronos Quartet.

For his February 17, concert at Mel Lehan Hall at St. James Community Square (3214 West 10th), presented by BlueShore at CapU, AlHaj and his trio—including Sourena Sefati on santoor (of the hammered dulcimer family), and Nicholas Baker on percussion—will play AlHaj’s own sublimely radiant compositions, inspired by musical traditions spanning the Middle East to Northern Africa. 

Vancouver oud player Gord Grdina opens the show.

Find tickets and more information at capilanou.ca/centre.

Post sponsored by BlueShore at CapU.