Discover the Cultural Richness of the Middle East Through Music

Music has always been a universal language that transcends borders, and the NAU Middle East Ensemble is proving just that. Led by Lillie Gordon, this dynamic ensemble invites you to a heartfelt journey through the sounds and emotions of the Middle East, bridging cultures and uniting communities in Flagstaff.

Unveiling New Musical Worlds

Lillie Gordon’s own musical exploration began during her undergraduate years. It was here that she first embraced the unique notes and scales of Middle Eastern music, playing alongside unfamiliar instruments and finding joy in improvisation—a skill not often utilized in Western music traditions. Her experience opened up a new universe of sound, and she has since committed to sharing this discovery with others, forming her own Middle East Ensemble in Flagstaff.

A Community Affair

This ensemble is not limited to those on the NAU campus. Gordon welcomes all—residents and students alike, whether or not they have extensive musical experience. This inclusive approach reflects the spirit of the ensemble’s mission: to build bridges between cultures and communities. The ensemble’s concerts, like the upcoming “Songs of Longing” at the Beaver Street Theater, are interactive experiences, encouraging audiences to cheer, dance, and fully engage with the music.

Music That Transcends Borders

Each performance by the Middle East Ensemble is a tapestry of sound, blending lively “bangers,” emotional ballads, and playful tunes from diverse Middle Eastern and North African regions. Senior NAU student Teodora Morris and Flagstaff resident Mohammed Alshalaby are among those whose performances transcend the traditional boundaries of their instruments, bringing new life and context to the music.

Bridging Cultural Divides

Through the music and stories shared at these performances, audience members are invited to explore and appreciate the rich cultural heritage of Middle Eastern communities. It becomes clear that these are not just songs of distant lands but expressions of universal human experiences—love, longing, and laughter. The Middle East Ensemble’s concerts serve as a vital reminder of the shared humanity that music can reveal, particularly in times of societal division.

As stated in The NAU Review, the upcoming concert promises an evening of connection, culture, and creativity, ensuring that music enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike will find something to captivate and inspire them.

Join the NAU Middle East Ensemble for an unforgettable evening that highlights the beauty of diverse musical traditions and celebrates our common humanity.