About the group
Al-Sharq Ensemble of Chicago is a group of Chicago based musicians who focus on studying and performing Arab Art Music. The group brings up the work to its highest artistic potential while incorporating ethnomusicological approaches throughout the process of interpretation. The group was established by Issa Boulos in 2001 and has performed at universities, colleges, community events and various other local and national venues throughout the US.
In 2006, this group has consulidated its work with Nawa Ensemble, another Chicago group with a much wider base and interests. The two groups have become one under Nawa Ensemble .

About the music
Arab Classical Music is sometimes referred to as Arab Art Music or Arab maqam music. It grew out of royal courts and underwent development and modification by musicians since the seventh century. By the 19th century, rhythmic and melodic modes were much greater in number and complexity and new vocal and instrumental genres were rising. The later popularization, however, did not alter the intimate, spiritual and entertaining characteristics of the genre, rather enhanced it. The vocal component continues to predominate over the instrumental due to deep connections to text, particularly Arab classical poetry. Its performance continues to demand highly skilled musicians, and deep knowledge of the maqam system.