Hewar

Oriental Jazz | Syria

Bringing together an amazingly diverse array of musical influences, and drawing from a variety of musical traditions—namely Arabic, jazz, scat, opera and classical music; is what makes Hewar a truly unique venture. The band, building on the acclaimed individual talents of its members, juxtaposes and meshes these styles to create a truly one-of-a-kind genre-defying musical experience.

The band includes clarinet player Kinan Azmeh, Oud soloist Essam Rafea, and lyrical Soprano Dima Orsho, all of whom are alumni of the Syrian National Orchestra. They live in various parts of the world, however, which enhances the band's cultural medley of influences and musical tastes.

Hewar released their first album in 2005 in Beirut and Damascus; it was produced by Incognito. The latter also released the band's next album, '9 Days of Solitude', in 2007; it was recorded in collaboration with three distinguished musical guests: Manfred Leuchter, Steffen Thormahlen and Antoine Puetz.