Questions for Interview with Simon Shaheen

·         You learned to play the oud from your father, Hikmat Shaheen, who was a professor of music and a master oud player.  What was it like learning from him, and how long have you been playing?

·         Your music blends a fusion of traditional Arabic sounds with jazz and Western classical styles- how does that reflect the exposure you have had to different kinds of music in your life and what interests you about bringing together a medley of sounds?

·         In your experience, how important is music as a tool to help build bridges and transcend boundaries of race, genre, and geography? 

·         You have written selections for some amazing projects, including movies such as Malcolm X and the soundtrack to For Everyone is Everywhere, which celebrated the 50^th anniversary of the UN’s Human Rights Charter.  What is your process when writing for a soundtrack?

·         What will you be performing when you come to Meany Hall in December, and what does this work mean to you?

·         Last time you were here, you performed a piece called The Wall, composed during a children’s residency you conducted in Bethlehem on the West Bank.  How has teaching others impacted you personally?  Why is it important for you to participate in the educational work along with on-stage performances?