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Portrait of Issa Boulos

Issa Boulos

Innovative Musical Bridge Builder

Born
1968
Born in
Jerusalem, Palestine
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Why Issa is here

Mastering Traditional and Contemporary Music Fusion

Their story

Issa Boulos, a Palestinian-American 'ud player, composer, ethnomusicologist, and educator, has significantly impacted the world of music by blending traditional Arab music with contemporary forms. Born into a family with deep musical and literary traditions, Boulos began his musical journey at a young age and has since navigated between cultures, contributing to musical understanding and innovation.

Milestones

The moments that shaped Issa’s path.

  1. Early Musical Education

    Started studying voice at the age of 7 and 'ud at 13 in Ramallah, showcasing prodigious talent in Arab classical maqam repertoire.

  2. Professional Music Career

    By the late 1980s, Boulos had released albums such as "Al-'Ashiq" and "Rasif al-Madinah," marking the beginning of a prolific composing period.

  3. Academic Pursuits

    Moved to Chicago in 1994 to further his music education, studying composition at Columbia College Chicago and Roosevelt University, and later obtaining a Ph.D. in ethnomusicology from Leiden University.

  4. Musical Direction

    Served as the director of Birzeit University’s musical group Sanabil and the University of Chicago's Middle East Music Ensemble.

  5. International Recognition

    Boulos's compositions have been performed globally, earning him numerous awards and fellowships. He has also contributed to the creation of significant music festivals and educational programs.

Legacy

What they built, changed and left behind.

  1. Fusion of Traditional and Contemporary

    Boulos has expertly blended traditional Arab music with contemporary forms, creating a unique sound that respects tradition while embracing modernity.

  2. Education and Outreach

    Through workshops and lectures at prestigious institutions, Boulos has shared his expertise and passion for music, fostering understanding and appreciation of Arab music traditions.

  3. Musical Direction

    His leadership roles in various music ensembles and as coordinator at the Harper Community Music and Arts Center have influenced countless students and musicians.

  4. Composition and Performance

    Boulos has composed music for orchestras, chamber ensembles, and solo performances, contributing to a diverse range of music literature.

  5. Cultural Preservation and Innovation

    Through his work, Boulos has played a crucial role in preserving Arab music traditions while also pushing the boundaries of musical expression.

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