Israeli Andalusian Orchestra

The Israeli Andalusian Orchestra (Hebrew: התזמורת האנדלוסית הישראלית) is a musical ensemble based in Ashdod, Israel.

Israeli Andalusian Orchestra
התזמורת האנדלוסית הישראלית אשדוד
Orchestra
Abatte Barihun performing with the Israeli Andalusian Orchestra
Founded1987 (1987)
LocationAshdod, Israel
Websitewww.andalusit.co.il

History edit

Originating as a project to honor the heritage of immigrants from the Magreb, the Israeli Andalusian Orchestra was formed in Ashdod in December 1987, as a joint initiative of the liturgical singer and classical conductor Moti Malka and then-mayor Arieh Azulay,[1] both of Moroccan origin.[2] The Orchestra is financed by the Ashdod municipality and the Culture Ministry and has toured Israel, the United States,[3] and several European countries.[1]

The orchestra comprises around 30 musicians and singers, mainly of Tunisian, Moroccan and Russian origin. It features traditional Sephardic Jewish-Arab and Andalusian music and poetry, combining classical Arab-Andalusian and European instruments. The orchestra's artistic director and head conductor is Sivan Albo-Ben Hur.

Awards and recognition edit

In 2006, the orchestra was awarded the Israel Prize, for its lifetime achievement and special contribution to society and the State.[4]

See also edit

References edit

  1. ^ a b Cidor, Peggy (16 November 2006). "Classical Sephardi conquers the world". Jerusalem Post. Retrieved 10 October 2011.
  2. ^ Bouziane, Daoudi (2 March 2000). "L'Orchestre Andalous d'Israël réunit musiciens séfarades et ashkénazes". Libération (in French). Retrieved 10 October 2011.
  3. ^ Heckman, Don (21 June 2000). "Israel Andalusian Orchestra Offers Impressive Blend". Los Angeles Times. Retrieved 10 October 2011.
  4. ^ "Israel Prize Official Site – Recipient's C.V." (in Hebrew). "Israel Prize Official Site – Judges' Rationale for Grant to Recipient" (in Hebrew). Archived from the original on 2008-12-26.

External links edit