Breaths from Aleppo – A Musical Journey Through Aleppo’s Oral Heritage

The evening presents traditional genres such as muwashahat, qudud halabiya and classical ashghal, which paint an impressive sonic picture of Aleppo's centuries-old musical heritage. The works combine spirituality, poetry and musicality in a unique way and take the audience on a journey through over 500 years of musical memory.


Under the artistic direction of Ibrahim Muslimani, one of the leading experts on Arabic and especially Syrian musical traditions, the musicians combine traditional forms with new arrangements - a bridge between past and present.
During the concert, Ibrahim Muslimani and Prof. Martin Stokes from King's College London will provide insights into Aleppo's musical heritage and explain the special features of the Muwashshah tradition and the rhythmic cycles (Iqaʿāt and Samāh) of this musical form.


The evening is not only a musical experience, but also a tribute to the cultural continuity, the oral tradition and the lively vitality of Arabic classical music.


Welcome and introduction:

Prof. Dr Stefan Weber | Director Museum of Islamic Art

Dr Deniz Erduman-Çalış | Curator Museum of Islamic Art


Participating musicians:

Ibrahim Muslimani | percussion and vocals

Prof. Martin Stokes |  QanunDerya Türkan | KemençeAhmad Al Khatib | OudMustafa Büyükipekçi | NeyAbeer Al Batal | vocals



Free admission.
Registration is required by 18 November 2025 at isl@smb.museum