Arab Christmas

The internationally acclaimed line-up of Reem Kelanim, Mirna Kassis, Shafiq Abouzayd, Jon Banks, Nizar Rohana and Merit Ariane Stephanos perform Syriac, Coptic and Byzantine chants harking back to the time of Queen Zanubia’s Palmyra in the second century CE.

Across the Arab World, Orthodox Christians and Egyptian Coptics celebrate Christmas on January 7. Arab Christmas, at St Martin-in-the-Field offers a line up of internationally renowned singers and musicians performing Syriac, Coptic and Byzantine chants, harking back to the time of Queen Zanubia’s Palmyra in the second century CE.

Compere for the evening is the internationally acclaimed singer, musician and broadcaster Reem Kelanim, recognised as one of the most enthralling and innovative performers of Palestinian and Arabic music. Reem will highlight the links between these Christian chants, rich with quarter tones and virtuosic ornamentation,
and other religious traditions.