Qadim Ensemble

Schedule

Thu, 12 Nov, 2026 at 07:30 pm

UTC-08:00
Location

1317 San Pablo Ave, Berkeley, CA, United States, California 94702 | Berkeley, CA

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DOORS: 7:30
SHOW: 8
This CD release concert features songs from their new album, Entre Las Huertas, a collection of Ladino songs from the Sephardic tradition of Jews who were expelled from Spain and resettled primarily in the Ottoman Empire. A tribute to the wisdom and traditions of women of the Sephardic Diaspora, these songs tell the stories of women's lives through songs passed down over the generations. From upbeat dance tunes to soulful lullabies, and of course including the improvisations in the musical modes that are signature of the music from the Ottoman Empire, this concert will transport you to another time and place.
The Qadim Ensemble
Qadim is a word found in both Arabic and Hebrew, meaning both “ancient” and “that which is yet to come.” The ensemble’s repertoire draws from many musical cultures of the Middle East and SWANA (South West Asia and North Africa), including Arabic, Mizrahi and Sephardic Jewish, Turkish, Armenian, Greek, and Moroccan traditions. Their music celebrates the region’s shared musical and spiritual heritage while honoring the rich diversity within it.
Acclaimed for their passionate performances, the Qadim Ensemble is composed of accomplished and internationally recognized musicians. Led by Rachel Valfer and Eliyahu Sills on vocals, oud, reed flutes, and upright bass, accompanied by composer and kanun master Moshe Vaturi, renowned Syrian percussionist Faisal Zedan and acclaimed dancer and percussionist Miriam Peretz.
“Beautifully presented, the players bring superb musicianship and palpable enthusiasm to each performance. Eliyahu’s ney flute along with Rachel’s succulent vocals are stars. creating a sense of human communication with the divine.”— All Things Considered, NPR

“Visionary . . . achingly beautiful . . .”— San Francisco Chronicle

“Rooted in history but infused with a hope for a brighter, more unified tomorrow, Qadim will take you on a beautiful musical journey.”— Portland Tribune
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Where is it happening?

1317 San Pablo Ave, Berkeley, CA, United States, California 94702

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Ashkenaz
Host or PublisherAshkenaz

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