Conductor
Ud Al Nad’s message addresses humanity at large. Therefore, we must be conscious of what we say, ponder it along with its impact, and seek its most honest expression. We aim to be freer in our work to create a musical oeuvre that reflects both our identity and feelings. We scoop our songs that address the core of our society and stem from its hopes and tribulations hoping that their meaning and tunes invoke deeper change.
As Ud Al Nad Ensemble conductor, I’m constantly searching for renewal and diversity within different styles of singing. When we sing acappella, we unfold the beauty and charm of Arabic music heritage. As such, the pure essence of the words emerges through the expression of the performance itself. Once combined, the spirit, the mind, and the body refine the authenticity of performance and create the desired ambience.
We must also remember the role of oriental instruments that create and enliven various milieus with their own uniqueness. We aim for choral singing that portrays a unity of voice all the while maintaining each of the singers’ uniqueness by providing space for solo singing.
Today, and after three continuous and often challenging decades, I can confidently say that the path we have taken is the right one, along with the way we have walked it. We will keep seeking inspiring texts and melodies attuned with our vision, both artistically and lyrically. We will continue as we have begun, carrying forth our message with our voices, channeling it in various aesthetic styles.
- Katy Jarjoura