Aleph’s musical journey began in Ehmej, Lebanon at the age of 3, when an old piano sparked his passion. While oriental tunes initially eluded him, his dedication led him to discover the “quarter tone.” With his first piano in hand, he harmoniously blended oriental and occidental melodies. During the Lebanese Civil War, he found refuge in his uncle Michael Ramia’s studio, a multi-instrument virtuoso, honing his skills. Aleph became the star of family gatherings, often performing alongside his cousin Carla Ramia, whose Arabic singing continues to captivate audiences.
Can you share a bit about your musical journey? How did you first get started in music, and what led you to pursue a career as a pianist, composer, and arranger?
I discovered music at the age of 3 when I was given a small old wooden piano. Reconstructing familiar tunes from such an early age, I was able to grasp occidental melodies while oriental tunes eluded me. I persevered and finally discovered what was missing: the “quarter tone,” a basis of oriental music. My parents recognized my potential and got me my first “real” piano. My uncle, Michael Ramia, who is a composer and master of multiple instruments, greatly influenced me during my upbringing. At the age of 11, I started composing my own music.
What inspires you the most when it comes to creating and performing music?
I am inspired by the desire to express Oriental melodies through an Occidental instrument, the piano, without artifice or subterfuge. I find inspiration in the fusion of different genres and cultures, aiming to create a harmonious blend that resonates with listeners on an emotional level.
As an accomplished pianist, composer, and arranger, how would you describe your musical style or signature sound?
My musical style can be described as Oriental Fusion. I aim to create a unique fusion of oriental and occidental elements, incorporating genres such as tango, flamenco, Latin, jazz, jazz fusion, and world music. My signature sound is characterized by the incorporation of oriental melodies and rhythms into the piano, creating a captivating and harmonious blend of cultural influences.
What do you hope to achieve through your music? Are there any specific messages or emotions that you strive to convey to your audience?
Through my music, I hope to evoke a sense of cultural unity and appreciation for the beauty of diverse musical traditions. I aim to convey emotions such as joy, nostalgia, and a connection to heritage. By bridging the gap between different musical genres and cultures, I aspire to create a universal language that resonates with audiences around the world.
Could you tell us about any notable performances or projects that have been particularly memorable or significant in your career so far?
One notable performance was when I was chosen to headline the Byblos International Festival in 2001, at the young age of 21. This served as a stepping stone for my international career, leading to a North African Tour and collaborations with esteemed artists. Another memorable moment was holding a solo concert at the prestigious Olympia in Paris in 2016, which was sold out and brought together people from all over the world. Additionally, my collaboration with Babak Amini for our recent show was a significant project that allowed us to combine our respective musical styles and create a unique musical experience.
“My signature sound is characterized by the incorporation
of oriental melodies and rhythms into the piano, creating a captivating and harmonious
blend of cultural influences.”
How do you find a balance between preserving traditional elements of Lebanese music and incorporating innovative ideas into your compositions and arrangements?
Finding the balance is a delicate process. I deeply respect the rich musical traditions of Lebanon, and it is important for me to honor and preserve those elements in my compositions and arrangements. However, I also strive to push boundaries and explore new possibilities by incorporating innovative ideas. It is a constant exploration and experimentation, where I aim to maintain the essence of Lebanese music while infusing it with fresh and contemporary elements.
Are there any upcoming projects or collaborations that you’re excited about and would like to share with us?
I will be performing next October a European Tour in Paris, Amsterdam, Lausanne and Madrid, as well as a US tour in the Spring of 2024.
As a musician who has achieved success both in Lebanon and beyond, what advice would you give to aspiring musicians who are looking to make their mark in the industry?
My advice to aspiring musicians is to stay true to their unique musical identity and constantly work on honing their craft. Embrace your cultural heritage and use it as a foundation to create something distinctive. Be open to collaborations and learn from other artists, as it can broaden your perspective and open new doors. Most importantly, never lose sight of your passion and persevere through the challenges, as success in the music industry requires dedication, hard work, and a genuine love for what you do.
Can you tell us about your collaboration with Babak Amini for your recent show? How did the idea for this collaboration come about?
The collaboration with Babak Amini was a remarkable experience. The idea for this collaboration came about through a mutual appreciation for each other’s musical styles and a desire to explore the connections between Persian and oriental fusion music. We recognized the potential of blending our unique musical languages and decided to join forces to create a truly distinctive performance that showcases the beauty of both traditions.
Both Lebanon and Iran have rich musical traditions. Did you notice any connections or similarities between the musical cultures of these two countries during your collaboration?
Absolutely, both Lebanon and Iran have rich and distinct musical traditions. Through our collaboration, we discovered striking connections and similarities between the musical cultures of these two countries. We found common ground in terms of the intricate melodies, rhythmic patterns, and emotional depth that are inherent in both Lebanese and Persian music. It was a fascinating exploration of shared musical elements that enhanced our collaboration and created a harmonious fusion of our respective traditions.