Join Al Qahwa, a dynamic ensemble of virtuoso musicians from Toronto, for an unforgettable musical journey that bridges cultures and hearts. Led by the mesmerizing vocals of Egyptian-born Maryem Tollar, who also enchants audiences with her mastery of the riqq (Arabic tambourine) and qanun (Arabic table harp), the band features Ernie Tollar on evocative wind instruments, Iranian-born Naghmeh Fahrahmand on dazzling percussion, and Sudanese-born Waleed Abdulhamid on bass and vocals. Al Qahwa weaves together original compositions and beloved Arabic classics—from Sufi devotional love songs and vibrant folk melodies to the timeless hits of Egypt’s golden age. Prepare to be transported by Al Qahwa’s rich tapestry of sound, where every note celebrates the power of music to unite, inspire, and move us all.
This concert is part of Caravan World Rhythms’ 25th Anniversary Celebrations.
Presented in collaboration with Vancouver Civic Theatres Summer Sounds Series.
Maryem Tollar – vocals, qanun (Arabic Table Harp), riqq (Arabic tambourine)
Ernie Tollar – sax, Arabic flutes, Indian flutes
Nagmeh Farahmand – Persian daff (frame drum); Arabic dumbek (hand drum)
Waleed Abdulhamid – bass, vocals, Arabic dumbek
ARTIST WEBSITE: https://alqahwa.ca/