Art has an uncanny way of bridging cultures together in a way that can touch both performers and observers. One opportunity for local residents to embrace the art and culture of the Middle East is presenting itself in South Kensington on June 4th when Al-Bustan Seeds of Culture and PNC Arts Alive present a vibrant evening of Western Classical and Arab music collaborations. The showcase will feature reinterpreted works by Vivaldi, Mohammad Abdel Wahab, Rafael Hernandez, and Chick Corea.

Hazami Sayed, the Executive Director of the program, was deeply impacted by 9/11 and wanted to create an alternative artistic space where people understand and learn more about Arab culture. Al-Bustan started with a day camp at Morris Arboretum in 2002 and has been expanding since, bringing together folks of different ethnic, social, and religious backgrounds for various cross-genre performances.

Dubbed “Musical Encounters” the performance will feature a collaboration between the Al-Bustan Takht Ensemble and the Prometheus Chamber Orchestra. Al-Bustan Takht Ensemble is comprised of talented Arab musicians, three of whom — Hanna Khoury, Kinan Abou-afach, and Hafez Kotain — are recipients of the prestigious Pew Fellowship in the Arts in recognition of their talent.

Meanwhile, the Prometheus Chamber Orchestra is the only self-managed orchestra in Philly. Working closely with Al-Bustan, they have been able to help provide the vehicle for spreading the love for Arab culture in Philly. Prometheus musicians are classically trained at the highest level, having studied at major conservatories/universities such as the Curtis Institute, San Francisco Conservatory, Conservatory of Music at Oberlin College, Indiana University, Hartt School of Music, Drexel University, and Temple University.

Using music as a universal language has been a specialty of the staff at Al-Bustan. The performance spans both race and age, leaving many in “Flow” — a state of unconsciousness that people experience when performing or watching a performance.

Lindsey Snyder, Director of Marketing at Al-Bustan, says this transcendence is her favorite aspect of the group. “Overall, especially in the political environment, there are certain preconceived notions and stereotypes that affect Al-Bustan. We approach them through the universal language of music and art.”

Prior to the concert on June 4, audiences are invited to bring their own drum and participate in a workshop led by Master Percussionist and Takht member, Hafez Kotain. The drum workshop will be held at Mascher Space Cooperative from 4:00-5:30pm. Additionally, a portion of the concert will also feature audience participation.

Don’t miss out on this wonderful collaboration of East meets West at Oxford Mills, 100 West Oxford Street, Philadelphia on June 4th, 8PM. There will be another performance of Musical Encounters on June 17th in North Philadelphia at Church of the Advocate. The drum workshop for June 17th will be at the same location as the concert (Church of the Advocate).