Mohamad Zatari

Mohamad Zatari (also spelled Mohammad Zatari) is a Syrian oud player who has been a central figure in Roots Revival's "Quieter Than Silence" project. The oud is a central instrument in Arabic and Middle Eastern music, and Zatari brings deep expertise in Arabic maqam (modal) traditions to his collaborations.

Musical Background

The oud is a fretless stringed instrument with a rich history in Middle Eastern music. Zatari's playing demonstrates:

• Maqam Mastery: Deep understanding of Arabic modal systems (maqam)
• Technical Virtuosity: Exceptional command of the oud's unique playing techniques
• Expressive Range: Ability to convey a wide spectrum of emotions
• Cross-Cultural Dialogue: Skill in engaging with musicians from different traditions

Quieter Than Silence Project

Zatari has been a key collaborator in the "Quieter Than Silence" project, which brings together musicians from Iran, Syria, and France. This project explores:

• Persian-Arabic Fusion: Blending Persian Dastgah with Arabic maqam
• Contemplative Music: Creating meditative, borderless sounds
• Cultural Bridge: Connecting Middle Eastern musical traditions
• Improvisational Dialogue: Spontaneous musical conversations between oud, ney, and other instruments

Key Performances

Some of Zatari's notable contributions include:

• "Quieter Than Silence" Full Concert - A complete concert showcasing the project's musical vision
• "A Shattered Beauty" - A duet with Mehdi Aminian
• "Don't Go" (مرو) - A collaborative piece with Mehdi Aminian
• Oud Solo Performances - Showcasing the instrument's capabilities
• "Eves Chatters" - A solo composition

Musical Style

Zatari's playing is characterized by:

• Arabic Authenticity: Maintaining the traditional character of Arabic music
• Modal Expertise: Mastery of Arabic maqam systems
• Collaborative Spirit: Ability to engage in meaningful musical dialogue
• Emotional Expression: Using the oud's expressive capabilities to convey deep emotion

Cultural Significance

The collaboration between Syrian and Iranian musicians in "Quieter Than Silence" represents an important example of cross-cultural musical exchange. Zatari's participation helps bridge Arabic and Persian musical traditions, demonstrating how these related but distinct traditions can create new artistic possibilities together.

Through his work with Roots Revival, Zatari contributes to a broader understanding of Middle Eastern music's diversity and unity, creating new artistic expressions while honoring the authentic character of each tradition.