Throughout the month of April, we'll be honoring the rich artistic traditions of Arab American cultures through music, dance, and more!
EVENTS & WORKSHOPS
Wednesday, April 1, 2026 · 7:30 PM · Szold Hall · 4545 N Lincoln Ave
Apollo's Fire with Jeannette Sorrell present
BAKLAVA BASH: An Ancient Middle Eastern Music Party
FREE World Music Wednesday Concert: GRAMMY-winners Apollo's Fire and Jeannette Sorrell make their Old Town School debut! This ensemble has performed at Carnegie Hall and around the world, bringing music of the past to life on historic instruments. In this program, they take you centuries back to a time when the different peoples of Jerusalem lived together in relative peace. Following the ancient tradition of Hakawati (Middle Eastern storytelling), oud master Ronnie Malley weaves tales of his Palestinian ancestors, while Apollo's Fire musicians evoke the Middle Eastern landscape with festive tunes and haunting ancient instruments. Also featuring Daphna Mor on the Middle Eastern ney flute, Emi Tanabe on violin/fiddle, and Tina Bergmann on hammered dulcimer. An uplifting musical prayer for peace in our time.
RSVP + Info ▸Saturday, April 11, 2026 · 1:00 PM · 4544 N Lincoln Ave
A Tribute to Fairouz & Dabke Dance Workshop with Mary Mulcahey
Join us for a special evening dedicated to the "Soul of Lebanon," Fairouz, as we celebrate Arab Heritage Month through music, history, and movement. This gathering honors the legendary icon whose voice has defined generations and explores the rhythmic heartbeat of the Levant through the traditional Dabke dance.
Whether you are a seasoned dancer or a curious beginner, this workshop is a chance to connect with Arab heritage and experience the joy of Dabke firsthand. Come ready to move, learn, and celebrate the enduring spirit of a true cultural treasure.
REGISTER ▸Sunday, April 19, 2026 · 1:30 PM · 4545 N Lincoln Ave
Egyptian Folklore: Saidi and Nubian Dance with Erika Ochoa
Join us for an introduction to the rich and vibrant world of Egyptian Folkloric Dances! This workshop covers several types of dances and is open to all levels—no prior experience required. Plus, live drumming!
REGISTER ▸Saturday, April 25, 2026 · 1:00 PM · 4545 N Lincoln Ave
Finger Cymbals, Zills or Sagat (Percussion instrument) with Asali Naimah
Ready to break free from overthinking and actually feel the music? Join Asali Naimah, known in the belly dance community as a Killer Ziller, for a one-hour crash course in finger cymbals (called sagat in Arabic and zills in Turkish).
This is not about rigid patterns; this is about finding your groove. This class helps you connect to rhythm in a natural, expressive way. You’ll learn how to trust your rhythm, play with confidence and ease, connect movement and sound, and find your own groove. Whether you’re new or experienced, you’ll leave feeling more confident, expressive, and ready to play!
REGISTER ▸
