Ensemble Chakâm (IRI-TUN-FRA)
Ensemble Chakâm (IRI-TUN-FRA)
The multi-ethnic trio Ensemble Chakâm has recently emerged on the global music scene, with their debut album Les vents brűlants released in spring 2025. The tar - viola da gamba - kanun - vocals line-up is exciting in itself, but the songs, based on a dialogue of stringed instruments, are particularly powerful in the trio's performance and create a peaceful harmony. Their first concert in Hungary promises to be a rare treat.
Named after an ancient Persian poetic form, Ensemble Chakâm, the three musicians - Iranian Sogol Mirzaei (tar), Palestinian Christine Zayed (canun, vocals) and French Marie-Suzanne de Loye (viola da gamba) - initially built their programme on Persian, Arabic and Baroque repertoire, which is characterised by vibrant melodic playing and soulful improvisation. The trio is brought together by shared experiences, a longing for a homeland left too soon, a sense of rootlessness, and memories of places that only music can't erase - but also an unwavering vitality of experience, discovery and rebirth. Founded in 2019, the band won the prestigious Diaspora Music Awards in 2023 and this year's debut album is a fine success on the global music scene. Christine Zayed may also be known for her work with the Persian music group Atine, or for her solo work, with her album Kama kuntu, featuring Arabic classical music, released in 2024.
