Echo from the Levant : Tradition Improvised 2025-2026
In this edition of the Concerts éclatés series, discover the acclaimed clarinetist Kinan Azmeh, widely praised by critics for his instrumental mastery and versatility across musical genres. With remarkable expressive freedom, the program showcases dances by Kodály and Bartók and Azmeh’s suite, where the clarinet takes centre stage in a dynamic musical dialogue that blends improvisation with traditional melodies.
A free cocktail will be offered at the bars of the Maison symphonique after the concert, courtesy of Distillerie de Montréal. Quantities are limited, first come, first served! Cheers!
Voices from the press
« In the hands of Kinan Azmeh, the clarinet becomes even more hypnotic. The soloist and composer generally works within a classical, jazz, and Arabic musical framework, crossing and melding qualities, incorporating new elements and influences as he goes. » – The Stanger (Seattle)
Artists
Rafael Payare, conductor
Kinan Azmeh, clarinet
Dinuk Wijeratne, piano
Program
Béla Bartók, Romanian Folk Dances, BB76 (6 min)
Dinuk Wijeratne/Kinan Azmeh, After Béla, for clarinet and piano (9 min)
Zoltan Kodály, Galántai Táncok [Dances of Galánta] (16 min)
Dinuk Wijeratne, Damascene – for clarinet and piano (6 min)
Kinan Azmeh, Two Syrian Imaginary Dances for clarinet and piano (8 min)
Kinan Azmeh, Suite for improvisor and orchestra (22 min)
Without intermission
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