Bassem Alkhouri - Qanun

Bassem Alkhouri, born in Damascus, Syria, is a master of the Syrian zither, the Qanun. He began his musical training at the Conservatory in Damascus, graduating in 2000 as a specialist in the Qanun under the guidance of Almera Achandova. Since then, he has established himself as a globally renowned musician, particularly recognized for his pioneering contributions to contemporary music featuring the Qanun.

In 2001, Alkhouri achieved second place at the International Music Competition in Algeria, marking the beginning of his international career. Since 2003, he has been a member of the prestigious New Ensemble and the Atlas Ensemble in Amsterdam under the direction of Ed Spanjaard. Within these ensembles, he specializes in contemporary compositions written specifically for the Qanun, blending the traditional Syrian instrument with modern musical expressions.

In 2008, Alkhouri recorded On Love I by Saed Haddad with Ensemble Modern in Frankfurt, performing the piece at major festivals in 2009, including the Salzburg Festival, the Riga Festival, and the Royal Festival Hall in London. Between 2010 and 2011, he collaborated with the WDR Philharmonic in Cologne and recorded a work by composer Fabio Nieder.

Since 2017, Alkhouri has been a member of the Trickster Orchestra in Berlin, an ensemble known for its unique fusion of avant-garde contemporary music and traditional sounds. His artistic endeavors reflect his passion for redefining and expanding the possibilities of the Qanun as an instrument that bridges traditional and modern musical worlds.

With his exceptional ability to connect diverse musical cultures, Alkhouri has become one of the leading interpreters of the Qanun, setting new standards for this ancient instrument in contemporary music.