Exploring Arabic
October 11 – Students enrolled in Arabic classes joined the FLTA, Mervat, for a presentation on traditional Arabic weddings. They learned about customs for both the bride and grooms before, during, and after various ceremonies. While enjoying some baklava, students watched a power point and series of videos teaching them about different wedding traditions. After the presentation, a member of the Boston Dabke Troupe stopped by the teach the students the traditional 6-step dance that is performed at many, many weddings and celebrations.
Click here to see a series of photos and videos from this event!
October 16 – Syria in my Heart: Classical Music by Contemporary Syrian Composers.
Based in Berlin and Helsinki respectively, violinist Ashraf Kateb and pianist Hamsa Alwadi Juris have dedicated themselves to researching, recording, and performing contemporary classical music by Arab-world composers. This concert – part of a five-campus collaboration with Boston University, Yale, Brown, and Connecticut College – focuses on Syria, illuminating its rich prewar classical music scene. Kateb and Alwadi Juris will play selections (all US premieres) by Dia Succari, Solhi Al-Wadi (Hamsa Alwadi Juris’ father), Zaid Jabri, Walid Al-Hajjar, and Boghos Gelalian.
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November 30 – The Arabic language program hosted an event for all WLL students at the Global House Lounge. They listened to Arabic and English translations of traditional Arabic poetry and interacted with students of all language levels. Special thank you to the Boston Dabke Troupe for their generosity in joining the group for the evening to give a stellar performance and teach the students a series of dance steps.
Click here to see a series of photos and videos from the event!