WIPPS 2015 Spring News: Ali Paris brings jazz, life in Palestine

Internationally acclaimed jazz musician, composer and vocalist Ali Paris brought his unique blend of Western and Middle Eastern music to the James F. Veninga Theater on March 14. His music was interspersed with personal stories of life in his native Ramallah, Palestine.

Paris has appeared on the worldwide stage with performers as diverse as Alicia Keys, Bobby McFerrin and Chick Corea.

Classically trained on the Qanun, which originates from the ancient Egyptian harp, Paris has earned critical acclaim in the Middle East and abroad for more than a decade.

Joining Paris on the Veninga Theater stage was UW-Stevens Point music faculty Ryan Korb, jazz percussionist, and Tom McComb, jazz and Brazilian guitarist.

The concert was part of WIPPS’ Cultural Engagement Series which seeks to bridge the gap among cultures through artistic expression.