Anouar Brahem is a Tunisian oud virtuoso celebrated for his ability to bridge millennia-old Arab musical traditions with Western and jazz influences. His playing is marked by contemplative, nostalgic melodic lines that simultaneously honour the memory of past traditions and embrace the freedom of improvisation.
The programme, titled 'After the Last Sky', takes its name from a verse by Palestinian poet Mahmoud Darwish asking 'Where do birds fly after the last sky?' The music consists of delicate chamber pieces for oud, cello, piano and double bass that explore this metaphysical question and its resonances in troubled times.
While rooted in the traditional modes of Arab music, Brahem has consistently sought dialogue with the wider world, drawing inspiration from many different cultures. The international quartet features double bassist Mats Eilertsen and pianist Django Bates, joined on this project by cellist Anja Lechner.
The concert takes place at the Amphi d'O in Montpellier on Friday 11 September 2026 at 21:30, as part of the Festival Arabesques.