Born in Damascus and trained in the traditional Arabic as well as classical Western musical traditions, Abdullah Chhadeh has built his international career both as a soloist and composer. A relentless musical adventurer, Chhadeh has spent the last five years introducing the qanun’s distinctive sound to new and occasionally unexpected settings, including guest performances with the likes of Jocelyn Pook and Natacha Atlas among others. With his ensemble ‘Nara’ he has developed an original sound; an enticing melange of evocative melodies and dense rhythms, true to the lucid style of classical Arabic music, yet laced with surprising twists and original textures.

At once a generator of excitement, and a skilled manipulator of silence.
The Independent