Foyer Matinee: Arifa

These vibrant ‘aperitif concerts’ take place every third Sunday of the month in the Handelsbeurs foyer. A glass of champagne or fruit juice in hand, whole families of music lovers gather around passionate performers of jazz, classical and world music.

"A BRIDGE OF SOUNDS BETWEEN THE ORIENT AND OCCIDENT"

Ancient musical traditions from the Middle East and Balkans are blended with jazz and contemporary improvised music through a Western frame of mind. Anatolian Alchemy is the second album by Dutch based Arifa, since the founding three years ago have played in 5 continents. Arifa's debut album Beyond Babylon received five star reviews and was highly acclaimed internationally. Arifa's secret is the creative chemistry between its four members. Coming from Romania, Turkey, the Netherlands and Germany their music is just as diverse as their origins, moving from traditional Turkish and Balkan sounds to jazz and classical music.

"Arifa combines the musical heritage of Babylon, Istanbul, Bucharest and Amsterdam with electronics and contemporary improvisations. The result transcends the sum of its parts and is a journey far into the realm of imagination." (Songlines)

Alex Simu (sax, clarinet & live laptop), Michalis Cholevas (tarhu, ney), Franz von Chossy (piano), Sjahin During - (Afro Anatolian percussion)