Workshop on Piano Music by Arab Composers
A Special Event in Minneapolis
I am excited to announce a unique and important workshop that will take place on Saturday, March 15th in Minneapolis, organized by the Music Teachers National Association (MTNA). The workshop, led by Salam Murtada and Vanessa Cornett-Murtada, will focus on the rich and diverse piano music created by Arab composers, with a particular emphasis on showcasing the artistic voices emerging from the Arab world.
Salam Murtada, an accomplished musician, will be performing works by various Arab composers, including two pieces of mine: “Rubble of Houses“ and “Dream of a Quiet Sky“. I am deeply honored that my compositions will be featured in this workshop, which aims to highlight the cultural contributions and creativity of Arab artists in the world of classical music.
Vanessa Cornett-Murtada, a respected piano professor at the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota, will join her husband in presenting a variety of works that reflect the diverse and vibrant traditions of Arab music. The Murtadas have been dedicated to collecting and performing music by Arab composers, and their work provides a powerful platform for voices that may otherwise be underrepresented in the classical music world.
One of the key focuses of this event is to ensure that Gaza and its artistic voices are represented, a cause that Salam and Vanessa are passionate about. By giving these works a stage, the workshop not only celebrates the music of the Arab world but also brings awareness to the ongoing challenges faced by communities in Gaza and the broader region.
This event is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about Arab music, its history, and its impact on contemporary classical piano performance. The workshop promises to be both educational and moving, shedding light on the beauty and complexity of Arab musical traditions.