World Music Folklife Center's topics - tribe.net

WMFC Article on Bhuz

Kostana — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 20:36:09 GMT

Check it out!
http://www.bhuz.com/forum/vbnews.php?do=viewarticle&artid=38&title=the-world-music-folklife-center

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Best Festival In DC!

Kostana — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 19:11:19 GMT

Washington City Paper is polling the district to find the "Best of DC".
Vote for World Music Folklife Center's Herdeljezi Romani Music and Dance Festival OR BALKTOBERFEST and help put us on the map!

The link to vote is here (go to Best of DC on the right and scroll through to Arts & Entertainment - vote for all your favorites!):
http://www.washingtoncitypaper.com

Festival information is here: www.wmfolklifecenter.org/calendar or www.balktoberfest.com

Thanks for your support!
Kostana

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Arabic Music Party & Fundraiser for WMFC

Kostana — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 16:13:34 GMT

Dear friends in dance & music!
We are holding our first fundraiser for the World Music Folklife Center on Friday, March 14 at Saffron Dance Studio in Arlington, VA. It will be a fun, informal party with wine, champagne, Raki, food, dance, Arabic music and conversation.
There is no formal schedule of events, but the newly formed Near East Music Society has agreed to play for part of the evening. I will also be teaching a couple simple dabkeh line dance steps, and we will have a silent auction. We have some really wonderful items lined up for auction so far including:
Beautiful Hand-made Rwandan basket,
Lovely Hand-made Russian lacquer Khoklohma,
Dinner at Cazbar Restaurant in Baltimore MD,
bottle of Raki,
Intro to Bellydance class with Saphira,
Zil Workshop with Kostana
and there's MORE to come!
Suggested Donation for the evening (drink & food included) is $10.00!
All proceeds from this event go to our Herdeljezi festival on May 17.
Please bring slippers, socks or comfortable dance shoes (like ballet or jazz shoes) as Saffron is a brand new studio with beautiful wooden floors, and we will need to check our shoes at the door!
So come out and relax with us - kick your shoes off or put on your dancin shoes and have some fun!
Details posted on: www.wmfolklifecenter.org

thanks,
Kostana
WMFC
www.wmfolklifecenter.org

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Grammy Nominee, Souhail Kaspar & Renowned Oud-player, Rachid Halihal Return to DC!

Kostana — Mon, 14 Jan 2008 21:07:06 GMT

MARK YOUR CALENDARS NOW!
Saturday, April 26
The World Music Folklife Center is bringing Souhail Kaspar & Rachid Halihal back to DC for workshops and a performance.
Workshops available in:
Dumbek Foundations & Fundamentals, Intermediate Dumbek Technique & Rhythms, Rhythms & Movement for Dancers with Souhail Kaspar, and Music Ensemble with Rachid Halihal.
Saturday evening performance.
Location and times TBA!
Please check www.wmfolklifecenter.org for updates! Don't miss this incredible opportunity to learn from one of the greatest Masters of Percussion on this continent!
Thank you!
Kostana

PS - AND DON'T FORGET: Saturday, MAY 17 is WMFC's annual International Herdeljezi (Romani Dance & Music) Festival!

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Seeking Board Members for World Music Folklife Center

Kostana — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 20:50:10 GMT

The World Music Folklife Center has a Board Member position open for 2008-2010
(2 year term).
What does it mean to be a Board member?
Required:
1) A love/passion for Arabic/Turkish/Romani/Balkan music – any one of these is
fine.
2) Ability to work well with others, to voice opinions and demonstrate
leadership but also to be able to come to consensus for the good of/goals of the community
3) Ability to attend 4-6 meetings a year in the Balto/Wash area. YOU DO NOT HAVE
TO BE LOCAL TO BE ON TEH BOARD, though it helps to be committed to programming in our
local area (we are incorporated in Montgomery County but serve the greater
Baltimore/Washington area)! If you are unable to physically attend meetings,
you can attend via phone/internet.

Desired qualifications:
We would love to have new Board members with any of the following skills, but
they are NOT necessary:
Knowledge of nonprofit law &/or tax law
Marketing/Networking skills
Fundraising/Grant writing skills

WMFC is committed to presenting quality music performances/workshops,
specifically in conjunction with dance. Our goal is to have MORE of the community involved in
our programming. If you want to make a difference, please contact me at
kostanadancer@....

Board members are voted on by the current board. We will be considering
nominations
and voting on January 12.
For more information on World Music Folklife Center: www.wmfolklifecenter.org
Thank you!
Cheryl

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Upcoming Drum & Dance Classes & Performances

Kostana — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 15:34:21 GMT

1) January 13 - Brad (Sidqi) Sidwell will be teaching
a new dumbek series focusing on beginning technique
with Balkan, Arabic & Turkish Romani rhythms at House
of Musical Traditions - Takoma Park, MD.
8 weeks, Sundays - $120 for the series. Time tba
(probably 12pm or 1pm)
You must preregister for this class through HMT. Call
301-270-9090, or email lessons@hmtrad.com to sign up
for classes

2) January 13 - May 4 - Sidqi teaches Intermediate
dumbek class at Sahara Dance at Tenley. To register:
www.saharadance.com

3) March 31 - May 19 - Kostana teaches an 8 week
series in Turkish Romani dance at Glen Echo Park, Glen
Echo, MD
This series focuses on basic steps and gestures used
in Turkish Romani social dancing primarily to 9/8
rhythms. Men & women can participate, although the
focus will be on women's stylings.
You must register for this class at
www.glenechopark.org
Registration begins February 2, 2008
$120/8 weeks (Mondays, 7:30pm-8:30pm). No drop-ins.

4) Spring Semester at Saffron Dance in Clarendon, VA
begins January 7, 2008. Kostana teaches 2 Oriental
Technique classes and 1 class in Cane & Zils. For full
schedule and to register, go to: www.saffrondance.com

5) We'll also be announcing additional workshops in
Turkish Romani dance and Understanding Arabic Rhythms & Music for
Oriental Dancers coming up soon in 2008! To check our
calendar for all classes, performances & workshops, go
to: www.raks-n-rhythms.com/performing

6) December 30, 2007 - 8pm - ?
Come out and celebrate New Year's Eve early with us
at Cazbar Restaurant in Baltimore, MD - TURKISH STYLE!
Featuring 4 beautiful bellydancers, a Turkish buffet,
Turkish music, DJ and lots of Raki! Plus we're celebrating Sidqi's
birthday!
$40/person. Be sure to reserve early! Call
410-528-1222 or visit www.cazbarbaltimore.com for more
information.

7) Two new features! We have added Turkish zils from
Istanbul to our shopping page at
www.raks-n-rhythms.com/shopping, and a new blog page
at www.raks-n-rhythms.com/blog with updates from our
travels to Turkey!

Hope to see you all soon, and have a safe and happy
New Year's!

yours in rhythm & dance,
Kostana & Sidqi
www.raks-n-rhythms.com

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World Music Folklife Center: 2008 News & Events

Kostana — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 21:55:22 GMT

Dear Friends,
We wish to thank everyone for your support of our events in 2007 and wish you a New Year filled with dance & music! Check out some of the news & events we have coming up in 2008. We hope to see you there!

January 2008: Board Elections
Do you have what it takes to serve on our Board of Directors? Do you wish to make a lasting contribution to the growth of the World Music Folklife Center? If you are interested in serving as a member of our Board, please contact Cheryl Sidwell for more information at kostanadancer@wmfolklifecenter.org before January 5, 2008 to be considered.

February 2008: WMFC Fundraiser
Turkish Night
The World Music Folklife Center will hold it's first fundraiser to help raise funds for our Herdejezi festival in May. This special evening will include live performances of Turkish bellydance, Romani dance and folkdance, plus live music, special guests, and OPEN DANCING! Date and location to be announced.

May 17:
Herdeljezi Festival 2008
Join us for our 2nd annual International Herdeljezi Festival! A celebration of traditional & modern Romani dance & music from around the globe featuring workshops, vendors and live performances! Details TBA. Save the date, and check www.wmfolklifecenter.org for details!

Look for more WMFC events coming soon in our 2008 Calendar!

RELATED EVENTS
Celebrate New Year's Early!
Sunday, December 30 - Cazbar, Baltimore, MD - 8pm-12am
Featuring delicious Turkish food & drink, 4 lovely bellydancers to entertain you and Turkish music. Reservations: (410) 528-1222

Turkish Romani Social Dance at Glen Echo Park
Mondays, Mar 31-May 19, 7:30-8:30pm, Spanish Ballroom
This class is sponsored in cooperation with the Glen Echo Park Partnership for Arts & Culture, Inc. and the National Park Service.
Kostana will teach basic steps & gesturing used in Turkish Romani social dancing, primarily to 9/8 rhythms. Discussion of instrumentation, costuming, & culture etc. is included. All levels are welcome. Both men and women may attend, as the dance is similar for both and often performed together, although we will be focusing primarily on women's stylings. Minimum age 12. 8 sessions. $120.00
You must register for this class through Glen Echo Park at www.glenechopark.org. Registration by phone, fax, mail or walk-in begins February 2. On-line registration begins February 4.

Introductory Dumbek classes in Arabic, Balkan, Turkish & Romani rhythms with Sidqi
January 13 - March 2, 2008 - House of Musical Traditions, Takoma Park, MD
This 8-week class is geared towards beginners and those who want to improve their technique! Sidqi will teach beginning technique with use of Turkish Romany, Arabic and Balkan rhythms. You must pre-register through House of Musical Traditions for this class. Email lessons@hmtrad.com or call 301-270-9090 to sign up. For more information about the class, email kostanadancer@yahoo.com

Best Wishes,
All of us at WMFC
www.wmfolklifecenter.org

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Carmine and Melissa coming to DC!

samirashuruk — Thu, 13 Dec 2007 14:29:09 GMT

It's official! Carmine and Melissa are coming to DC in January!
Workshops!
A FANTASTIC show!
Jalsah!

The show, Friday Jan 25th includes the incomparable Artemis Mourat in addition to Samira Shuruk, Shems, Madirah Nasreen, Kostana and more. It's at Taste of Morocco in Silver Spring, MD. $10 cover, $10 minimum. Doors open at 10pm. Show starts at 10:30.
More info here:
http://www.jalsah.org/sites/Jalsah/Locations/DC/

The workshops on Sat the 26th are to be held at Maryland Youth Ballet in Silver Spring, MD
Baby Beginner Doumbek by Carmine
Drummers and Dancers by Carmine and Samira
ME music and Rhythms for all instruments by Melissa
More info and registration via PayPal here:
http://www.jalsah.org/sites/Jalsah/Locations/DC/

Saturday night we're hosting a Jalsah! Time and location TBA.
http://www.jalsah.org/sites/Jalsah/Locations/DC/

More Jalsah info:
www.jalsah.org

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Drum Workshop with Issam Houshan TODAY!

Kostana — Tue, 06 Nov 2007 14:31:48 GMT

As you may know, Issam will be performing with the
Bellydance Superstars at the Birchmere tonight at 7:30pm.
We have arranged a special drum workshop with him
before the show at our home in Arlington, VA.

Details:
Tuesday, November 6, 3pm-5pm - ONLY $40!
Dumbek Master Class with Issam Houshan
This is a mixed workshop geared towards those with
experience at Intermediate level and above.
Location: Sidqi Studio, Arlingotn, VA

For directions to our home and to register
for the class, please email me or call 571-332-4865.
DUE TO THE LATE NOTIFICATION OF THIS WORKSHOP, THERE
WILL BE NO ONLINE REGISTRATION FOR THIS CLASS.

Sorry, I couldn't get this out sooner, but I did email our drummer list last Friday when it was confirmed. It's hard for me to post in all places all the time. If you would like to be on our e-mailing list to find out first about upcoming percussion workshops and shows, please send me an email to kostanadancer@yahoo.com. Or you can also sign up at our website: www.wmfolklifecenter.org

Thank you!
Sidqi & Kostana
www.wmfolklifecenter.org
www.raks-n-rhythms.com

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Balkan Music Workshop in NYC - cross post

kazuki_kozuru — Thu, 18 Oct 2007 03:54:51 GMT

in case you are interested and haven't contacted me. something seems to be wrong with list posting thing on tribe.

Balkan music workshops - now voice, too!

Sunday, October 28, 2007 12:00 PM
at Salsa International Studios
701 7th Avenue (entrance @NE corner, on 47th Street) 5th floor New York, NY

For info & pre-reg:
206-339-3833
www.thebalkanbrothers.com/institute.aspx

beginner dumbek with Kazuki 12:00 - 1:00pm $15 pre-reg / $20 @door
Balkan guitar technique with Brad Shepik 1:00 - 2:30pm $30/35
int/adv dumbek with Seido Salifoski 1:00 - 2:30pm $30/35
Balkan voice with Carol Freeman 1:00 - 2:30pm $30/35

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Yuri Yunakov in Maryland - October 4!

Kostana — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 14:15:41 GMT

Just in case you don't already know about this:
Nothing to do on a Thursday night?
FSGW and the World Music & Dance Institute in cooperation with World Music Folklife Center are bringing Yuri Yunakov and his Romani Wedding Band to Silver Spring on his U.S. tour next week!
Details:
Thursday, October 4 at 7:30pm
Hollywood Ballroom, 2126 Industrial Pkwy, Silver Spring, MD (less than 4 miles from the Capital Beltway)
Concert & Open Dancing!
Tickets are $20
Info: 301-717.4641
"(Yuri & his band's) incredibly thrilling blend of virtuosic technique, electrifying improvisation, rapid tempos, and daring key changes is a contemporary take on "wedding music", named for its ubiquitous presence at Roma celebrations and rites of passage. Originally played only for, with and by Roma, this music was driven underground in Bulgaria during the 70's, but has re-emerged and is growing in popularity across Bulgaira, Romania, Greece, Macedonia, and Turkey."
Hope to see you there!
Kostana

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ROMANO DROM CONCERT CANCELED!

Kostana — Thu, 13 Sep 2007 21:37:10 GMT

Regretfully I must inform you that the Romano Drom concert scheduled
for Tuesday, September 18th has been canceled. The tour manager has
informed me that the band members were not able to procure their travel
visas in time.

The tour manager is in the process of planning a similar tour for
sometime in October/November and it is possible that they will have a
show in the DC area during this time. We will email you with
information about such an event upon confirmation.

Thank you very much for your interest in this event. WMFC hopes to
sponsor many more events like this in the future.

Thank you,
Bryndyn Weiner
President, World Music Folklife Center
http://wmfolklifecenter.org

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Reyhan on Youtube

Kostana — Tue, 17 Jul 2007 21:16:39 GMT

At last - for those who missed her at Herdeljezi festival, the lovely Reyhan:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qqiqYLCxm24

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Souhail, Rachid & Dahlena Workshops & Hafla: UPDATES & CHANGES!

Kostana — Mon, 09 Jul 2007 02:33:57 GMT

Please note the following changes to the Class Schedule for workshops on July 14 & 15. These changes have been made on our website at www.wmfolklifecenter.org

SATUDAY, JULY 14
Sidqi Studios - Arlington, VA
1) Beginning/Intermediate Dumbek with Souhail (10am-12pm) - $50
This class has been combined and will include both beginner technique and more advanced drills and technique for intermediate students.

Maryland Youth Ballet, Silver Spring, MD - Studio C
1) Classical Egyptian Style Technique with Dahlena (10am-1pm) - $60
2) Drum Solo for Dancers with Souhail (2pm-4pm) - $50
(Learn techniques to help you perform live drum solo with a Master of Percussion!)
Studio E
4pm-6pm – Arabic Voice & Instrumental Ensemble with Rachid - $40
(This class has now been combined and will include maqams, improvisation and song translation. ALl levels, instruments and voices welcome!)

SUNDAY, JULY 15
Maryland Youth Ballet - Studio C
10am-12pm – Modern Saidi with Dahlena - $40

MULTIPLE CLASS DISCOUNTS:
FULL WEEKEND of Dance Classes with Souhail & Dahlena including Classical Egyptian, Drum Solo & Modern Saidi only $120 if you register in advance! With Gala Show included = $150 (advance purchase ONLY!)
Take any 2 classes or more and get $10 off each class (2 classes=$20 off, 3 classes=$30, 4 classes=$40, 5 classes=$50, 6 classes=$60, etc.)

SUNDAY HAFLA: Taste of Morocco, Silver Spring, MD – 2pm (show starts at 2:30pm)
Tickets are $35 – includes full Moroccan meal and show! (alcoholic drinks not included)
Special performances by Dahlena & local guest stars! Open Dancing between performances!
Please reserve now with Kostana at 571-332-4865 or call Taste of Morocco at 301-588-4003

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Dahlena: A Living Legend!

Kostana — Sat, 16 Jun 2007 02:45:51 GMT

So, I borrowed the December '99 copy of Habibi magazine from a friend (vol. 17, No. 4) with Dahlena on the cover (god she's gorgeous!) and I thought I'd share this quote:

"Although one of only a handful of professional dancers who established raks sharqi in America, and one of very few pioneers still performing, Dahlena may not always be the first name dancers hear in their dance study. Unfortunately, artistic contributions are sometimes not as widely recognized as they should be, and Dahlena is modest to a fault, rarely producing or disseminating promotional material...It seems her joy comes not from self-serving promotion, but from research, teaching and dancing..." - Farida Gamal

WOW! I think we all could use a lesson. AND...SHE is coming HERE to teach for one weekend only - July 14 & 15 - Classical Egyptian & Modern Saidi.
Please check www.wmfolklifecenter.org for details.
Folks, this is a chance in a lifetime to study with someone who was dancing the cabaret shows in N.Y., L.A. & Chicago in the 70's, who performed with Bobby Farrah, & worked in Iraq & Syria...
If you can't make the workshops, come to the show on Sunday at Taste of Morocco in Silver Spring, MD (its' not that far from B'more) and watch her perform. You can say you saw the legendary Dahlena perform with the LIVE Music of the amazing Souhail Kaspar & Rachid Halihal....
AND There will be OPEN DANCING FOR ALL!
Kostana

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Summer Arab Music Workshops!

Kostana — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 11:49:43 GMT

This summer we are excited to announce 3 amazing opportunites to study with Masters of Arabic Percussion and Music in the Baltimore/Washington area:

1) Mary Ellen Donald - Sunday, July 1
RHYTHM ESSENCE & CYMBAL WORKSHOP (10am-3pm)
Mary Ellen Donald is a nationally acclaimed author, instructor & performer in Middle Eastern Percussion Her career in Middle Eastern music has spanned 30 years. This is her first teaching tour outside of San Francisco in 20 years!
ADVANCED REGISTRATION:
$50.00 or $60.00 w/ show & buffet
AT THE DOOR:
$60.00 or $70.00 w/ show & buffet
LOCATION:
5 Seasons Restaurant
830 Guilford Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21218
*This workshop is sponsored by Masani. For information, please contact her at: 443.739.9232 or bdtofe@aol.com

2) Souhail Kaspar & Rachid Halihal - July 14 & 15
CLASSES OFFERED INCLUDE:
Beginning, Intermediate & Advanced Classic Egyptian-style Dumbek (Rhythm & Technique, with emphasis on CORRECT technique) w/ Souhail
Arabic Riqq w/ Souhail
Arabic Singing & Arabic Instrumental Ensemble (all instruments welcome!) with Rachid
(students in the ensemble class will have an opportunity to perform in the Sunday hafla if they desire - see details below)
*Souhail & Rachid are also available for private instruction, but space is limited!
Please reserve now!
Full workshop schedule & registration available at: www.wmfolklifecenter.org/calendar and www.wmfolklifecenter.org/register
Or, contact Kostana at kostanadancer@yahoo.com or 571-332-4865

July 15 - Hafla at Taste of Morocco in Silver Spring featuring LIVE ARABIC MUSIC ENSEMBLE: Souhail, Rachid and other special guest artists will perform accompanied by dancing of the legendary American bellydance icon, Dahlena, and local dancers including Kostana, Nadira, Saphira & Shadiyah.
Tickets: $35 (includes show & full course Moroccan meal - does NOT include alcohol)
Family friendly show (kids under 12 are $15).
Please reserve early to guarantee your space and so the restaurant knows how much food to prepare! Taste of Morocco features some of the best Moroccan food in the MD/DC area!
Call Kostana at 571-332-4865 for tickets or email kostanadancer@yahoo.com. You can also purchase tickets online at www.wmfolklifecenter.org/register

ABOUT SOUHAIL: A Master percussionist, Souhail is known worldwide for his brilliant technique, exciting performances and teaching skills. Born in Lebanon and trained at Nadi al-Fonun al-Arabia (Conservatory of Traditional Arabic Music) in Aleppo, Syria, Souhail excelled in both classical and ethnic rhythmic patterns and techniques, and received a Degree in Classical Arabic Performance. He has traveled extensively during his 34-year career and has performed with artists such as Sting and Kenny Burrell, and with Arabic superstars such as Sabah, Feiruz, Cheb Mami, George Wassouf, Ragheb Alama, Kathem al-Saher, and Faiza Ahmed.
Additionally, he has an impressive body of recorded work, including credits on the soundtracks for the movies The Prince of Egypt and Sinbad, the documentary The Great Bazaars, and as a guest percussionist with the cutting-edge Kronos Quartet on the CD Caravan. Since the late 1970s, Mr. Kaspar has also appeared with Ali Jihad Racy at a wide variety of cultural events and performed in major concert halls, master classes, and workshops throughout the United States. He has worked with legendary Egyptian composers Farid el-Atrash, Sayyed Makowi, and Hanni Mehanna. Mr. Kaspar is a recipient of a Durfee Music Fellowship given to master musicians and teachers.
More info at www.neareastmusic.com

ABOUT RACHID: As a world-class musician, Rachid Halihal brings to the community the true character & spirit of music from the classical Egyptian repertoire, much loved throughut the Middle East, from the Fertile Crescent; from diverse regions of Morocco & North Africa & also the mezmerizing music of the Arabian Gulf.
As a child, growing up in Fez, Morocco, Rachid played the nei (flute) and sang, imitating the famous singers of the time. At age fourteen he entered "Dar Aadyil" the Conservatory of Music in Fez. At first he studied Western classical and Andalus music on piano and violin. He soon expanded to include a variety of other instruments in order to better express his native music. In addition to his voice, which is best featured in the Andalus style, his strongest instruments are the oud (similar to a lute without frets) and the violin, which he plays in both the classical manner and upright resting on the knee for Moroccan folkloric music. More at www.rachidhalihalmusic.com

3) Issam Houshan - August 5 & 6
CLASSES OFFERED:
Baltimore Bellypalooza at Johns Hopkins University, August 5
MIDDLE EASTERN RHYTHM WORKSHOP FOR DANCERS (2pm-3:30pm): $35/advance or $40/door
This workshop is geared primarily toward the dancer. Issam will teach the rhythms that are most common in Middle Eastern music, so that the dancer may understand the structure of the rhythms and the sounds of the tabla. This class includes music theory & how to work with the drummer as well as movement. This knowledge will improve both your choreography and improvisational skills.

BEGINNING DUMBEK WORKSHOP (3:30pm-5pm): $35/advance or $40/door
This class is for those who want to learn to play the dumbek (tabla), and will cover basic techniques & drills for the tabla as well as an introduction to Middle Eastern Rhythms. Please bring a drum or let us know ahead of time if you need to borrow one.

Sidwell Studios, Arlington, VA, Sunday, August 6
INTERMEDIATE/ADVANCED ARABIC DOUMBEK (12pm-1:30pm): $35/advance or $40/door
Issam will teach intermediate/advanced strokes and techniques for the tabla (dumbek). Issam will also teach a formula for creating drum solos for dancers. ***Attendees of this workshop must possess basic drumming skills***

REGISTRATION for any of Issam's workshops at: www.raks-n-rhythms.com/shopping

ABOUT ISSAM: A highly accomplished percussionist, Issam was formally trained at the Damascus Music Institute for nine years & currently teaches & performs around the world. Made famous by touring Internationally with the Bellydance Superstars, Issam's drum solos are a major feature of each show. He has performed & recorded with countless Arab superstars and his CD releases include Wassan Pharaoun, The Dancing Drum & Tabel Ya Issam. More about Issam at: www.tablabyissam.com

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Get your Turkish ON!

Kostana — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 11:47:17 GMT

Upcoming Turkish Performances & Workshops!

JUNE 9: Grup Nazar returns to Cazbar in Baltimore - The ONLY LIVE TURKISH ROMANI BELLYDANCE MUSIC IN TOWN!
Two shows: 9pm and 10pm. Don’t forget to make reservations! 410-528-1222
We’ve got a couple new Romani tunes for you that we’ve been working on!
Also, we have our own webpage now at www.raks-n-rhythms.com/grupnazar

JUNE 11: Kostana and Sidqi teach an Introduction to Turkish Romani Music & Dance at Montgomery College in Rockville, MD. This class will cover common Turkish Romani rhythms & music, & basic steps and gestures used.
FREE to the public as part of Montgomery College's World Arts Festival.  8:30pm-9:30pm. No pre-registration necessary!
Location: 51 Mannakee Street, Music Bldg, Room 124, Rockville, MD 20850

JUNE 16: Kostana teaches a Turkish Romani Dance Intensive at Montgomery College in Rockville, MD. This class will include video footage of Turkish Romani dance from our Herdeljezi Festival. Kostana will break down basic footwork and gestures to traditional Turkish Romani 9/8 rhythms.  1pm-2:30pm.
Cost is $10 and will benefit the World Music Folklife Center. All proceeds will go to our 2008 Herdeljezi Romani (Gypsy) Festival Fund.
To register, please call 571-332-4865, or go to: www.wmfolklifecenter.org/register
Location: 51 Mannakee Street, Music Bldg, Room 124, Rockville, MD 20850

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Drums, dance and fire - you tube preview

Sibylla — Mon, 14 May 2007 23:24:06 GMT

Greetings Friends!

We're thrilled to let you know that a great video has been posted to YouTube showing the Alchemical Fire Circle, with voiceover by Jeff McBride explaining how the dancing is analogous to the orbits of the planets.

If you've been wondering about what we'll be doing at Fires Rising at Four Quarters Farm in a few weeks, take a look at this, and then pass the word! The video is from a documentary produced by Vision TV about Jeff's magic profession and his work with alchemical fire circle with Abbi. You'll see many familiar faces here.... We hope you will enjoy and want to put out huge thanks to the Four Quarters office guy Micheal for putting this together!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aSjnq_ALNVY

Please, tell your friends about it! If any of you have a YouTube account, we'd
appreciate you linking/favoriting it.

Once you've seen the video, you can go to
http://www.4qf.org/_FiresRising/index.htm
and register online for an incredible and magickal gathering!

We hope to see you there!

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Our First Fundraiser: Turkish Rom Dance Workshop

Kostana — Thu, 10 May 2007 03:27:06 GMT

Where: Montgomery College, Music Building, Classroom #124
51 Mannakee Street
Rockville , MD 20850

When: Saturday, June 16, 1pm-2:30pm

Details: Turkish Romani Dance - This intensive class will include footage of Reyhan from the festival, and Kostana will review & break down footwork and gestures used. Class is $10; the entire amount will be donated to World Music Folklife Center to bring Reyhan back again to teach at next year's festival.

This class is being taught as part of the World Arts Festival at Montgomery College.

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A WEEKEND OF ARABIC DANCE & MUSIC WORKSHOPS WITH SOUHAIL, RACHID & DAHLENA!

Kostana — Thu, 10 May 2007 02:54:39 GMT

SOUHAIL KASPAR, RACHID HALIHAL & DAHLENA COME TO DC TO TEACH & PERFORM!

When: July 14 & 15
Where: Maryland Youth Ballet Studio, Silver Spring, Maryland & Sidwell Studio, Arlington, VA

Workshops include:
Classical Egyptian Oriental Dance Technique & Modern Saidi w/ Dahlena
Drum Solo for Dancers w/ Souhail (How to work with a Live Drummer!)
Beginning, Intermediate & Advanced Dumbek & Arabic Riqq w/ Souhail
Instrumental & Voice Ensemble w/ Rachid
(students will learn a piece to perform at the Sunday Hafla!)

*Multiple Class Discounts Offered! Go to www.wmfolklifecenter.org for more details and information.

*Vending on Saturday by Scheherezade Imports & Salome's Tent, plus Personal Eye Kandy Glitter Consultations w/Shadiyah, the Original East Coast Distributor!

Sunday Hafla with Live Music of Souhail & Rachid!
Taste of Morocco, Silver Spring, MD
2pm (show starts at 2:30pm)
$35 tickets include delicious Moroccan meal & show
Register early to reserve your space!
All workshop participants are invited to perform in the show.
*Limited number of performance slots assigned on a first come, first serve basis.
*Special performances by Dahlena and local guest stars including Kostana, Saphira, Nadira & Shadiyah!

About Souhail: www.neareastmusic.com
About Rachid: www.rachidhalihalmusic.com
About Dahlena: www.dahlena.com

Info: www.wmfolklifecenter.org, kostanadancer@yahoo.com, or (571) 332-4865

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Hey Kostana!

Carey — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:44:13 GMT

Can I post a few of the pictures I took Saturday on here? I have a whole cd for you (somewhere around 200 pictures)! I just need a place to send it to!

Thanks!

posted in World Music Folklife Center - 5 replies

Lost Notebook at Festival

Kostana — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 20:04:50 GMT

Someone left a beautiful notebook with Israeli ceremonial dress on front cover (from Israeli Museum) with dance notes inside. If anyone knows who this is and can provide an address, I will mail it to them!
Thanks,
Kostana

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Don't Forget: Master Classes in Turkish Romani & Persian/Uzbek Dance: They're selling out quick!

Kostana — Wed, 11 Apr 2007 19:43:05 GMT

Reminder!
1) Reyhan Tuzsuz's 2 hour workshop in authentic Turkish Rom on Sunday, April 22 in Takoma Park, MD (10:30am-12:30pm) is filling up fast! I still have room for maybe 3 more people. Please email me at kostanadancer@yahoo.com or register online at www.raks-n-rhythms.com/shopping if you are interested!

2) I still have some space left for Rena Milgrom's Persian/Uzbek workshop on Wednesday, April 25 at Studio Artemis in Silver Spring, MD (7:30pm-9:30pm). She will be teaching technique and combinations that are great to use with any 6/8 rhythms. Again, please email me or go to my website to register!

Both workshops are $40 each.
Thanks,
Kostana

posted in World Music Folklife Center - 1 reply

Herdeljezi Festival 2007 made the critic's pick!

Kostana — Fri, 20 Apr 2007 19:54:35 GMT

We're a critics pick in City Paper
http://www.citypaper.com/calendar/event.asp?whatID=89588

posted in World Music Folklife Center - 0 replies

Changes to Herdeljezi Festival & Introducing Reyhan

Kostana — Mon, 19 Mar 2007 17:27:14 GMT

Dear members,
Due to overwhelming response to Reyhan Tuzsuz coming to teach her traditional Turkish Romani dance, we have changed the festival schedule slightly. Classes will be available earlier in the morning and run until 5:30pm, so that we can offer TWO classes with Reyhan. Reyhan will also be performing for the VERY FIRST TIME in the United States. She does not perform in Turkey. For more about Reyhan, please read her bio at: http://www.raks-n-rhythms.com/festival.html

You will be able to check-in on April 21 as early as 8:30am. IF you are unable to come that early, you can register before your first class.
We will also be announcing a 2 hour workshop with Reyhan on Sunday. Stay tuned...
Here is the new festival schedule:
REGISTRATION & CHECK-IN
8:30am-10am – St. Mark’s Church Entryway
(If you are taking individual classes, please check-in when you arrive, prior to class)

DANCE CLASSES - Fellowship Hall
9am-10am – Turkish Romany dance with Reyhan Tuzsuz

10am - 11:30am – Sapera Dance of the Kalbeliya Snakecharmers from Rajasthan with Rena Milgrom

11:30am - 1:00pm – Romanian & Transylvanian Romany dances with Steve & Susan Kotansky

1:00pm - 1:30pm – LUNCH BREAK & SHOPPING

1:30pm – 3:00pm – Hungarian & Russian Romany dances with Rena Milgrom

3:00pm – 4:30pm – Macedonian & Bulgarian Romany dances with Steve
& Susan Kotansky

4:30pm – 5:30pm – Turkish Romany dance with Reyhan Tuzsuz

MUSIC CLASSES - Music Classroom (Downstairs)
10am - 11:30am – Beginning Romany Dumbek technique with Sidqi

11:45am - 1:15pm – Rajhastani Frame Drum Techniques with Hearn Gadbois

1:15pm - 1:45pm – LUNCH BREAK & SHOPPING

1:45pm-3:15pm – Intermediate/Advanced Romany Dumbek technique with Seido

3:30pm - 5pm – Romany Clarinet with Smajko

EVENING DANCE PARTY - Fellowship Hall
5:30pm – 6pm – DINNER BREAK & SHOPPING

6pm-10pm – Concert & Dance Party with The Balkanics, Romski Boji, Reyhan,
Hearn Gadbois & Rena Milgrom (food will be available throughout the evening or until gone!)

10pm-10:30pm – Clean-up and Goodbyes! See you next year!

posted in World Music Folklife Center - 4 replies

Miss the Early Bird Deadline? Can't Decide which class to take?

Kostana — Wed, 04 Apr 2007 15:19:23 GMT

You can still save! I put up 2 new discounts online today:
1) Take 2 classes for only $50 (Individual classes are now $30/each) - Internet special only! (www.raks-n-rhythms.com/shopping)
2) Buy 2 dance party tickets for only $50 (Adults are regularly $30/each). Bring your sweetie or a friend to hear some of the best music on the planet and save!
3) Bring a group of 5 or more for the whole day, and save 10 percent off your total (only available if you preregister!).

For those of you thinking of taking just one class and trying to decide what to take, here's my recommendations:

1) If you like Turkish style - Definitely take Reyhan Tuzsuz's Turkish Rom class at 9am or 4:30pm
2) If you are a tribal dancer - I'd recommend either Turkish OR Rena's Sapera dance at 10am
Here's a youtube clip of what Sapera dance looks like:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I9Dfnj8ao44
She'll be teaching the basic technique (no jugs)!
3) Want to learn a dance with your sweetie? Take Steve & Susan's Romanian & Transylvanian dances for couples at 11:30am!
4) Want to learn some dances to Romski Boji and the Balkanics music to perform at the Evening Party? Take Steve's Macedonian Romany class at 3pm.

For more info: www.raks-n-rhythms.com/festival
or www.wmfolklifecenter.org

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Master Classes in Turkish Rom & Persian dance with Reyhan Tuzsuz & Rena Milgrom

Kostana — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 19:38:18 GMT

We are offering the following "specialty" workshops with Reyhan Tuzsuz &
Rena Milgrom while they are here for Herdeljezi Festival in April & teaching in the United States:

1) Turkish Romani Dance with Reyhan Tuzsuz
Sunday, April 22
10:30am-12:30pm - $40
Takoma Park, MD
(email me for exact (metro accessible) location)
*Learn authentic Turkish Romani dance from the Master. She is the real deal &
has taught at Folktours, Eva Cernik & Hadia's Dance Camps in Turkey. She will also be
teaching 2 classes at Herdeljezi Festival in Rockville, April 21.

2) Persian/Uzbek Dance with Rena Milgrom
Wednesday, April 25
7:30pm-9:30pm - $40
Studio Artemis, Silver Spring, MD
This class is geared toward intermediate/advanced level dancers, but beginners
are welcome if they feel they can keep up and want to learn some Persian/Uzbek dance
technique. This is an excellent workshop for anyone wanting to learn what to do
to 6/8 rhythms as well!

*If you are interested in registering for any of these
workshops, please email me at kostanadancer@....
You can prepay with check made out to Cheryl Sidwell and send
to: P.O. Box 50054. Arlington, VA 22205, or
pay in cash the day of, but I MUST KNOW IN ADVANCE if you are
coming!

I set up these workshops so we could take advantage of the amazing talents of
these women, but also to help Reyhan make more money while here (she is a Turkish
Roma woman living in Istanbul, who may be losing her home this Spring).
Rena Milgrom is a dance artist in Prague who has dedicated her time and energy
to help the Roma people.

Here are their bios:
REYHAN TUZSUZ:
Reyhan was born and raised in the same neighborhood
where she lives now, GaziOsman Pasa, Istanbul, Turkey.
From a young age, Reyhan had a gift for interpreting
and stylizing to Roman (Turkish Gypsy) music. She has
learned to dance the natural Roman way; through
watching at weddings and events, and listening to the
music. She is totally improvisational; a natural
technician and artist of the dance. ?Reyhan has a core
of dedicated students who travel from afar to learn
from this master. She works with some of the world's
best known Middle Eastern and Central Asian dance
enthusiasts. She is the "teacher's teacher". She is
also regarded in Roman musicians' circles as the woman
responsible for a unique cult following of foreign
women who have become excellent Roman dancers. Reyhan
herself does not perform in Turkey, and as this is her
first time traveling outside of Turkey, it will be an
honor to see her dance.

RENA MILGROM:
Her dance education started in early age with
classical and modern dance, later Flamenco, African
and Indian dance. Rena's dance career includes
performances in Japan, Belgium, Austria, Slovenia,
Slovakia, Czech Republic as well as teaching workshops
in different countries. Regular work with Rromany
peoples of Slovakia, Czech Republic and India brought
her specialization in teaching Romany (gypsy)
dances. Collaboration with renowned master
percussionist, Hearn Gadbois, inspired her to further
studies of Persian dance and music as well as dances
of middle Asia. As a duet with H. Gadbois they have
developed unique drum/dance performances as well as
master classes of dance and drumming.
Teaching specialization: Persian classical
dance Bandari (Iranian folk dance) Afghani
dance, Uzbek Raks, Tunesian Raks, Shaabi, American
Tribal Style, Rromani dances: Zambra Mora
(Spain), Kalbelyia (Sapera) - (India -
Rajasthan), Karsilama & Roman (Turkey), Cocek
(Balkan), Csardasz (Hungary)

yours in dance,
Kostana
www.wmfolklifecenter.org

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Herdeljezi Updates

Kostana — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 17:00:55 GMT

1) JUST ANNOUNCED! – We have added a TURKISH ROMANI teacher to the schedule. Reyhan Tuzsuz will be coming from Turkey to teach traditional Turkish Rom dances. She teaches at most of the major dance camps in Turkey including Folktours, Eva Cernik’s camp and Hadia’s Turkey tour. She is the real thing, and this is her first time ever leaving Turkey to teach! She does not speak English, and one of her students, Jennet will be traveling with her to assist. Here is a great youtube clip of Jennet (blonde in black skirt) dancing with Turkish band….
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yZlV5D12RlU

In the event Reyhan is unable to get her visa, Jessaiah, her student from NY will teach in her place, so we will still have a Turkish Rom class!

2) For those of you who don’t already know Seido and Ismail (Smajko) Lumanovski, both of whom are teaching and performing at the festival here are two youtube clips:
Smajko (with Seido, Yuri & Husnu): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cEFY9zRsY6g
Seido’s drum solo: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YkkdHXTwI_c

If you want to see a truly amazing band, don’t miss Romski Boji! They will be playing both Turkish & Macedonian Romani music. You will recognize the Turkish songs for bellydance as well as folkdance.
Also, the Balkanics will be playing - Here’s a youtube clip of them doing an
Armenian tune: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zu0fkkDbGtc

3) The following Vendors are confirmed for Herdeljezi Festival 2007: Touch the Earth, Father Dunn’s Jewelery (ethnographic jewellwery, textiles & garments), Marrakesh, & Sharifwear, plus traditional Rom music & instruments for sale! Henna by Dark Moon Arts!

4) We have added a Group Discount for groups of 5 or more people who sign up together for a FULL DAY PASS! You must preregister to receive this discount. Please see details at: www.wmfolklifecenter.org
or www.raks-n-rhythms.com/festival

5) We also decided to extend the Early Bird Discount to March 31! See website for details.

6) We now have a yahoo group: http://launch.groups.yahoo.com/group/wmfolklifecenter/
and tribe: http://tribes.tribe.net/wmfolklifecenter
These are primarily for out of town folks coming to our events who want to exchange rideshare information, but anyone can join! Also please pass on to your out of town friends!

Thanks & Happy Dancing,
Kostana

posted in World Music Folklife Center - 1 reply

Middle Eastern music instructional Mp3s

melissaclarinetchick — Thu, 08 Mar 2007 09:04:12 GMT

Hi everyone!

If you or a loved one are interested in learning traditional Middle Eastern music and the rhythms that accompany those songs, well look no further!

Carmine Guida and I (Melissa Murphey) have recorded an instructional CD that has 12 plain straightforward songs that will enable drummers or musicians to learn to play the traditional tunes.

This CD includes such classics as Layla, Misirlou, Shisheler, Fire Dance and Sulukule. There are no distracting vocals or excessive ornamentation here, just the plain songs for learning purposes. The MP3s are available for immediate download at www.dorku.com. they are only 1 dollar each!

All soundfiles are in the same key as the sheet music available at www.dorku.com.

In addition, GUITAR TABLATURE is now available for select Middle Eastern songs at www.dorku.com. Sheet music is available for key of C instruments, B flat instruments (trumpet, clarinet , soprano and tenor sax) and Bass clef instruments (cello, trombone, baritone)

www.dorku.com - for all your Middle Eastern Music needs!

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Yahoo Group for WM Folklife Center

Kostana — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 13:35:37 GMT

We also created a yahoo group discussion board for people travelling to Herdeljezi Festival to arrange/exchange rideshare & accommodation information, etc.
You can find it at:
http://launch.groups.yahoo.com/group/wmfolklifecenter/join

We have also reserved a room block of 15 rooms at the Marriott, Courtyard in Rockville, MD (2500 Research Blvd., Rockville, MD 20850)
Standard rooms are $89.00/night (I believe you can request either a KING or 2 Queen beds)

Individual guests will make sleeping room reservations directly with Marriott reservations at 1-800-321-2211 or 1 (800) 359-3204 on or before March 30, 2007. Please identify yourselves as part of the Gypsy Festival Room Block group staying at the Rockville Courtyard. After March 30, the hotel will release any unreserved rooms for general sale and determine whether or not it can accept reservations based on a space- and rate-available basis at the Gypsy Festival Room Block group rate after this date.

posted in World Music Folklife Center - 0 replies