Nawras Altaky & Young Jazz Society conducted by Tijn Wybenga

Exploring the crossroads of big band jazz and Arabic music

The Fractal project brings together the Young Jazz Society and Syrian singer and oud player Nawras Altaky. Together, they explore the fascinating intersection between big band jazz and Arabic musical traditions.

Nawras Altaky is a rising star in the Dutch music scene, moving between traditional Arabic folk music and contemporary jazz, rich with narrative melodies, improvisation, and complex rhythms. His use of tonal systems, harmonies, and quarter tones—uncommon in Western music—provides an inspiring challenge for the Young Jazz Society.

Under the direction of Tijn Wybenga, the youthful orchestra will perform nine dynamic compositions specially arranged for this concert, with contributions from Oene van Geel (violinist and longtime musical partner of Altaky) and Osama Abdul Rasol (arranger with Brussels Jazz Orchestra).

About the Oud
The oud, often seen as the ancestor of the European lute and guitar, is a fretless instrument capable of microtonal play—producing sounds outside the standard twelve-tone Western scale. Its expressive sound is a perfect match for this cross-cultural musical journey.

Date: Friday 3 October 2025
Time: 20:30
Venue: LantarenVenster, Rotterdam
Tickets: €18 (including €3 service fee)
Note: Seated concert with free seating.