Multi-instrumentalist Nikolai Ruskin performs original and traditional music from the Middle East.
Oud, nay, violin, and percussion, with loops and backing tracks, create a soundscape of Arabic, Turkish, and Persian musical influences that weaves together traditional music, original compositions, and improvisations. Nikolai Ruskin is the Director of the Cornell Middle Eastern Music Ensemble, which he co-founded in 2002. His musical journey began at age 21 with heavy metal, progressing to flamenco, and then to Middle Eastern music; more recently he is exploring southern old-time banjo and Irish fiddle music.
The concert is free, open to the public, and in-person, with livestreaming.
Supported by the Birdsong Fund for Visiting Music Faculty.