Diaspora has a soundtrack, and on this Mother's Day, it recalls ancient strains of the Middle East. The Rahim AlHaj Trio features two-time GRAMMY nominee, NEA National Heritage Fellow, Smithsonian Folkways Recordings artist, and Iraqi oud virtuoso and composer Rahim AlHaj. Joined by Iraqi santoor master Ahmed Albandawi, this duo performs AlHaj’s intricate compositions, which delicately combines Rahim's traditional Iraqi maqams with contemporary styling and influence. His compositions evoke the experience of exile from his homeland and of new beginnings in his adopted country. His pieces establish new concepts without altering the foundation of the traditional “Iraqi School of Oud.” The Rahim AlHaj Duo create a deeply immersive sonic experience as these two world-renowned musicians weave transfixing textures and melodies that transport listeners to a world of tranquility, beauty, joy, and sorrow.

Beyond its music, the duo represents AlHaj’s artistic appeal to each of us to make a positive difference toward a better world, however we can. Albandawi joins AlHaj in this spirit of friendship, tolerance and an acknowledgment that everyone must live in peace under the same sky. Their musical conversation is timely and poignant. 

Listen as you relax serenely in our oasis, dining al fresco from Zeidler's special brunch menu, designed by Skirball's peerless chef and music aficionado Sean Sheridan. Blue skies, sweet sounds, and infinite possibilities await.

Virtuoso oud player and composer Rahim AlHaj, born in Baghdad, Iraq, has found in his ancient instrument, whose written history spans some 5,000 years, a unique voice that speaks passionately to contemporary listeners of every musical background. Deftly combining traditional Iraqi maqamat with contemporary stylings and influences, AlHaj seeks to translate into music the suffering, joy, anxiety, and determination that he has experienced and witnessed in his lifelong struggle against injustice—as an Iraqi, a political refugee, and today as an American citizen. Communicating with a compelling immediacy that bypasses cultural obstacles, his music speaks irresistibly to the heart in a universal language of compassion. 

Ahmed Albandawi is a professional musician and Santoor player, holding a music diploma from the prestigious Music and Ballet School in Baghdad, Iraq. Early in his career, he performed on major stages throughout Baghdad, establishing himself as a skilled interpreter of Iraqi classical and folk traditions. In 2012, Ahmed relocated to the United States, where he continued to share his passion for Middle Eastern music with new audiences. From 2019 to 2024, he served as a featured performer with the Middle East Music Ensemble at the University of Chicago, representing and preserving Iraqi folk music and song through a series of notable concerts and cultural programs. Beyond his traditional roots, Ahmed has been a pioneer in expanding the artistic possibilities of the Santoor—bringing the instrument into contemporary and cross-genre settings that push beyond its classical boundaries, introducing it to listeners in fresh and unexpected ways.