QUICK FACTS
Date of Birth
1955
Tarshiha, Galilee, Palestine
Place of Birth
Why Featured?
Simon Shaheen is a celebrated musician who has masterfully blended traditional Arabic music with Western classical and jazz, making significant contributions to world music and the preservation and evolution of Arabic musical heritage.
BRIEF BIO
Simon Shaheen, a virtuoso on both the violin and oud, has gained international acclaim for his fusion of Arabic music with various Western styles. Born into a musical family, he was profoundly influenced by his father, an accomplished composer and musician. Shaheen's work reflects a deep legacy of Arabic music while innovating within the genre, earning him worldwide recognition and numerous awards.
LAST UPDATED
DATE
Monday, January 26, 2026
MAJOR MILESTONES
Key dates & turning points
1955: Born in Tarshiha, Galilee to a musical family.
1978: Earned degrees in Arabic literature and musical performance from the Academy of Music in Jerusalem.
1980: Moved to New York for doctoral study in music performance and education.
1982: Established the Near East Music Ensemble in New York.
1996: Established the Arab Music Retreat in Holyoke, Massachusetts.
CONTRIBUTIONS
What they did, and why it matters
Fusion of Arabic and Western Music: Shaheen specializes in blending traditional Arabic music with Western classical and jazz...See More
Establishment of Music Ensembles: Founded the Near Eastern Music Ensemble and Qantara, promoting Arabic music in diverse musical contexts...See More
Music Education and Outreach: Dedicated to teaching and working with prestigious schools and universities, sharing his expertise in Arabic music...See More
Soundtrack Contributions: Contributed to soundtracks for films like "The Sheltering Sky" and "Malcolm X," and composed the entire soundtrack for the UN-sponsored documentary "For Everyone Everywhere"...See More
Innovative Recordings and Performances: Released several influential albums and has been recognized for his innovative work in music, including receiving the National Heritage Award in the United States.
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Last updated
Jan 26, 2026
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