House of Tarab

Classic and Traditional Arabic Music from the 20's-70's.

The Music:

There are many genres of arabic music, House of Tarab specializes in the “Golden Era”music of Egyptian cinema. Think Frank Sinatra of the middle east, classical instruments with a big band cabaret sound. Maintaining the integrity of the music is paramount in these cabaret arrangements keeping the music fresh and relevant. The melodies are intricate in there micro-tonal scale structure; and the use of mainly acoustic instrument leads to very dynamic emotional playing. Most all of the members sing chorus as well giving a rich, bigger than life sound. Attention to detail, professional attitudes, hours upon hours of research and rehearsals gives House of Tarab a level of class and sophistication rarely seen these days.

The Band:

House of Tarab aka H.O.T consists of 7 members playing acoustic arabic instruments including oud (Egyptian lute), ney (open end reed flute), violin, keyboards, contra bass, and a variety of percussion instruments.
The band was officially formed in 2007 though several members have played in different configurations for over a decade. Venues range from house concerts, weddings, night clubs, concert hall, colleges functions, and festivals. Attention to detail, professional attitudes, hours upon hours of research and rehearsals gives House of Tarab a level of class and sophistication rarely seen these days. From casual to tuxedos these players can do it all. If your are looking to hire an Arabic band in Seattle look no Further.

Unlike a lot of ensembles H.O.T is a family, the members spend as much time hanging out together as they do rehearsing and performing. This has created a bond between them that truly makes the sum greater then the parts.

The Style:

This is not your typical sleepy acoustic music. House of Tarab is high energy dance music accompanied by world class dance artists. The band loves this music and it shows by how much fun they have on stage, goofing around and making jokes that inevitably lead to hysterical laughter by the band and audience. This is a spectacle that will leave any audience in awe, a true cabaret show.

The Logistics:

House of Tarab typically consists of 7 members though it can range from a duo to the full ensemble to fit the occasion.
Concert venues must be equipped to handle 10 xlr inputs 4 di's with 2 monitor outputs. 6 armless chairs, 3 vocal mics, 4 instrument mics, 4 DI, 6 mic stands (boom) 3 of those short if possible, compression and reverb.

Recordings:

House of Tarab: Self titled 2007 voted one of the ten best world music recordings of 2007 by Barbie-Danielle DeCarlo world Music Director of KCBS
House of Tarab: Beledi released in October 2008

The Musicians:

Stephen Elaimy: oud, vocals
David McGrath: ney, vocals
Tracy Helming: violin
Michael Nageub: keyboards, ney, vocals
Sean Daly: contra bass
Jane Hall: riqq, duff, tabl baladi, vocals
Erik Brown: tablah, duff, muzhar, vocals

3 vocal mics, 4 instrument mics, 3 di.
5 arm less chairs
Compressor, reverb
2 monitors
Lighting consistant with Venue