About the Israel Andalusian Orchestra



About the Orchestra
Dr. Avi Ilam-Amzalag
The Musicians
Concerts Schedule
Recording & Boradcast
History of the Music
The Press
Funding & Sponsors
Table of Contents



	The andalusian music arrived to Israel with the immigrants from North Africa in the late 50s and early 60s. However, due to the difficulties in their absorption these new immigrants neglected this rich and ancient music. Their predicament was further aggravated by their exposure to the new Israeli culture. Only in the late 70s and early 80s, as part of a general societal reawakening did the andalusian music begin to regain its rightful place in the culture of the Jews of North African lineage.


	The need for this music faced numerous obstacles foremost of which was the lack of trained musicians who understood the nuances of the authentic instruments, which when added to the fact that the andalusian music was never transcribed from its oral tradition to a written one, led to the formation of small un-established ensembles who operated sporadically, in this context, the formation of the Israel Andalusian Orchestra not only met a genuine demand but also resolved those obstacles.


	The inclusion of musicians trained in western classical music was indeed a solution to the lack of traditionally trained musicians. The integration of musicians playing traditional instruments keeps the musical authenticity and the written musical notes, together with the organizational structure provide a seamless and continual flow.


	The first reactions to the activities of its first season, already indicate that the formation of the IAO does indeed meet a fundamental cultural need of a large section of society in Israel while at the same time raising the curiosity of those who are not initiated in this music. The idea for the formation of the IAO, without any doubt, germinated from the societal and cultural changes that occurred in the Israeli society over the last few years. In the mere existence of this cultural organization lies an extraordinary meaning that goes beyond the musical enrichment in Israel, it is in fact equal to an educational organization that serves as a bridge to Israel's neighbours towards peace.


	Mordechai (Moty) Malka \| Dr. Yhiel Lasri \|	General Manager Chairman

About The Orchestra