“Samaai Ajam” is an instrumental form consisting of four sections, in 10/8 meter. It is one of the most important forms in Arabic, Ottoman Turkish music and Sufi music.
Samaai Ajam is composed by my great grandfather, Sudki Shukri, a Palestinian maestro, composer, and song writer. He studied in Cairo, Egypt in the 1950s and was taught by some of the greatest musicians. Upon his return to Palestine, he helped revolutionize music creating bands, radio stations and teaching. In 1986 he composed the Samaai Ajam.
Since childhood, I have been exposed, influenced, and highly fascinated by my family’s musical heritage - being the grandson of the Sudki Shukri – oriental oud Player, composer, and song writer. Hence, I have 10 years' experience of playing professionally, Oud.
In 2009, I first listened to Samaai, and for me, it was a magic that took me to a very emotional dimension. I then decided that I want to play it.
I started learning it and playing with my grandpa.
Ghassan Birumi
credits
from We Make the Road By Walking,
released November 26, 2015
Composer: Sudki Shukri
Viola: Shoshana Gottesman
Acoustic Guitar: Aaron Shneyer
Bass Guitar: Tamer Omari and Aaron Shneyer
Oud: Ghassan Birumi
Percussion: Mohammad Taha
Mixing and Some Recording: Ami Yares
Mastering: Alain Paul
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