Jazz meets Arabic rhythms at Katara European Jazz Festival

Doha hosted the 10th Katara European Jazz Festival, a gathering that merged jazz with Arabic musical traditions, showcasing a blend of cultural heritage. Zlatan Fazlić, Director of the Qatar Music Academy (QMA), defined jazz as "timeless music" and highlighted its capacity to intermingle with traditional Arabic rhythms due to their shared melodic and rhythmic qualities.

The festival featured Arabic instruments like the darbuka and nay, which injected new depth into jazz performances. These experimental fusions were enthusiastically received by the audience, particularly when nay player Ibrahim Kadar performed alongside George Oro and his students. Guests Soraya and Franc emphasized their appreciation for the fusion of Eastern sounds with North American jazz, looking forward to the performance by the Illyes Ferfera Quartet, known for incorporating North African rhythms into contemporary jazz.

Fazlić noted that a performer's skill lies in their ability to maintain the integrity of the piece while experimenting with diverse musical traditions. This was evident in the QMA's rendition of Dave Brubeck's "Take Five" as "Take Four" and a rendition of "Mas Que Nada," which even caught the attention of passersby on Katara's beach.

The QMA also showcased young musicians, whose performances were bolstered by their extensive rehearsals and preparation. Fazlić credited their confidence to rigorous training, stating that the students felt secure on stage because they were confident in their abilities and those of their bandmates. The festival continues until November 7, 2026.