Joseph Tawadros

A virtuoso of diversity and sensitivity, Tawadros performs in concert halls worldwide and is known for his brilliant technique, deep musicianship, storytelling and joyous style of performance. Tawadros’s drive to push musical boundaries has inspired collaborations with diverse performers and a solid repertoire of innovative and original music. He performs live as a soloist, in duo with his brother James on Egyptian percussion, with his jazz quartet or with chamber orchestras and symphony orchestras all over the world.

Tawadros has performed his own works with the Australian Chamber Orchestra, BBC Symphony, Melbourne, WA and Adelaide Symphony, Ukraine National Orchestra, Camerata Salzburg, the Morphing Chamber Orchestra and his Concerto for Oud & Orchestra with the Sydney Symphony was performed and released by ABC Classics, Australia in 2019. He is also the first and only Australian composer to be performed by the Academy of Ancient Music in the United Kingdom.

This exciting program will feature all original compositions by Tawadros, showcasing the versatility of the oud. His works take inspiration from the arabic modal system (maqam) and blend them seamlessly with elements of western classical, jazz, world, folk and even metal and bluegrass. From thrilling and furiously paced numbers to beautifully introspective and tranquil tracks, it is woven together by Tawadros’s trademark lyricism and striking contemporary musicality of his oud.

The program will include a variety of pieces spanning my career, all original compositions, some tunes that have become popular performance repertoire and audience favourites. I have always believed in the sound of the oud and its power to reach audiences not from a Middle Eastern background and the program will reflect that, with each piece having a different flavour with influences of jazz, rock, western classical and even bluegrass as well as some contemporary pieces for oud. There will also be an improvisational element. – Joseph Tawadros

Don’t miss this chance to experience the energy and vibrancy of Tawadros up close in an intimate solo performance in the David Li Sound Gallery.

One of the most impressive musicians to emerge in Australia … with a dazzling technique dispensing hair-raising tempos … His writing displays a real depth of emotion … revelling in a zest for life and celebration. – The Australian

This recital is part of the 2024 Sundays in the Sound Gallery series, showcasing exceptional artists in the intimate and acoustically superb David Li Sound Gallery.