The Musician Insight

A masterpiece of Arab and classical music

When two visions of music meet

About Oussama Rahbani

From a young age, Oussama Rahbani took piano lessons, and at only thirteen years old, he became the choirmaster of a youth choir in a church. In 1986, he founded the band Jazz Gate and performed at the Byblos International Festival. Later, Oussama Rahbani composed children’s songs for television and for the Lebanese Caracalla dance group. In 1997, he released his first album, Al Nizam al Jadid, and in 2007, he began collaborating with singer Hiba Tawaji. Since then, they have worked on many projects, such as La Bidayi w La Nihayi (2011), and have performed at numerous concerts, including the Sharjah World Music Festival (2017).

Symphonic poem I

Appearing on the album Synergy, released in 2016, Symphonic Poem I offers a unique experience, blending classical music with traditional Arabic music. Recorded by the London Philharmonic Orchestra and Choir, it features a wide range of instruments: harp, strings, winds, voice, and percussion from both the East and the West. From the very beginning, we are immersed in an atmosphere of mystery, suspense, and epic grandeur, with military-like elements emphasized by the percussion and brass. Symphonic Poem I is an almost cinematic musical piece, as the music vividly evokes the journey of a traveler.

This composition, rich in complexity — through its rhythms, voicing, harmonies, and nuances — offers a one-of-a-kind experience, captivating both musicians and music lovers alike.

Photo © Festival de Baalbeck