TALES FROM THE ORIENT-The Awakenings

Led by Australian drummer and composer Michael Pignéguy, The Awakenings Ensemble is a premier cross-cultural musical project that bridges the sounds of the Middle East, Turkey, and Persia with contemporary jazz. Their flagship program, "Tales from the Orient," takes listeners on an evocative journey from the western shore of Istanbul through Syria, Jordan, Egypt, and beyond to Pakistan. The ensemble features a multinational lineup, including Persian vocalist and Ney flute player Esfandiar Shahmir, alongside core members Michael Edelby and Steve Richter. Their music explores complex rhythmic structures, such as the 9-8 Turkish patterns and Maksum rhythms, combined with traditional melodic systems like the Hijaz maqam. Notable compositions include "Black Iris," inspired by Jordan’s national flower and its diverse landscapes, and "Dark Days," a reflection on the Syrian conflict featuring the plaintive Aeolian melody of the Ney. The group has established itself as a leader in cross-cultural collaboration, performing at prestigious international venues including Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Dizzy’s Club in New York, The Esplanade in Singapore, and the Katara Arts Centre in Qatar.