Souhail Kaspar's Music Classes

Grammy-nominated Souhail Kaspar, Master Percussionist, is known world wide for his brilliant technique, exciting performances and teaching skills. A true virtuoso, his ability to improvise and embellish the rhythmic patterns of Arabic music, as well as his knowledge of ethnic musical history make him one of the most highly acclaimed performers and instructors of our day.Born in Lebanon and trained at Nadi al-Fonun al-Arabia (Conservatory of Traditional Arabic Music) in Aleppo, Syria, he excelled in both classical and ethnic rhythmic patterns and techniques; there he received his Degree in Classical Arabic Performance.Mr. Kaspar has worked with legendary Egyptian composers Farid al-Atrash, Sayyad Makowi and Hanni Mehanna. He has traveled extensively during his career and has performed with artists John Bilezikjian, Kenny Burrell, Omar Faruk, Shujaat Khan, Kronos Quartet, Cheb Mami, Dr. Scott Marcus, Roberto Miranda, Tito Puente, The Sacramento Symphony Orchestra, Kathem al-Saher, Simon Shaheen, Sting, Strunz & Farah, Wadi al-Safi and many others. He has also performed for dignitaries such as Ronald Reagan, Pope John Paul II, and the Dalai Lama. Souhail, recipient of the Durfee Music Fellowship given to master musicians and teachers, has worked with Dr. Ali Jihad Racy (renowned UCLA Ethnomusicologist) at a wide variety of cultural events. Together they have performed in major concert halls and taught master classes and workshops throughout the United States.