New York Arabic Orchestra

Gain early access! Tickets on sale to this event to Members August 17 and Subscribers only August 18.Become a MemberTODAY and gain exclusive early access to see the New York Arabic Orchestra before tickets go on sale to the public on August 21! Membership starts at just $100. We welcome the return of the New York Arabic Orchestra, in an all-new program. The New York Arabic Orchestra (NYAO), founded in 2007 by the late virtuoso Bassam Saba and percussionist April Centrone, is dedicated to preserving and promoting Arabic music and culture while fostering cross-cultural dialogue. Inspired by the legacy of Simon Shaheen and the Arabic Music Retreat, the orchestra has grown into a leading ensemble in the U.S. for Arabic music education and performance. Now under the artistic direction of Grammy-nominated violinist Layth Sidiq, NYAO offers concerts, workshops, and educational programs that have inspired Arab-American communities to reconnect with their heritage and introduced broader audiences to the richness of Arabic musical traditions. Performing at venues such as Lincoln Center, the United Nations, and international festivals, the orchestra showcases classical and contemporary Arabic repertoire, from icons like Fairuz and Mohammed Abd El-Wahhab to original works. Their impact extends beyond the stage, with contributions to projects like Ubisoft’sAssassin’s Creed: Miragesoundtrack (2023) and academic collaborations, including the 2024Mosaicconcert at Princeton University. Through these performances and outreach initiatives, NYAO continues to serve as a cultural bridge, celebrating Arabic heritage while shaping a global conversation through music.