DEARBORN – The Michigan Arab Orchestra will bring its inaugural 2011 season performance of “Ushaq Al-Tarab” with vocalist Usama Baalbaki and guest vocalist Nidal Ibourk to the Arab American National Museum on Friday, September 23. 

MAO Founder and Director Michael Ibrahim said he is excited about the ambiance of the venue. “It’s a nice intimate setting, perfect for a concert with the type of repertoire we’re doing,” he said. 

The orchestra’s takht ensemble features traditional Arab instruments such as oud, qanun, riqq along with violins, bass and more to create a rich sound.  “I think this is a significant thing for the community because the MAO is filling a cultural gap, when you speak of Arab music you’re talking about a heritage and tradition spanning some 2,000 years…we’re keeping that tradition alive,” Ibrahim said. 

The group performs in southeast Michigan and also travels across the country including an upcoming Nov. 10 performance in Washington, D.C. 

Tickets for the Sept. 23 show in Dearborn, which are $20, can be purchased  in advance by calling 586.354.1576 or 313.522.4700. For more info visit www.michiganaraborchestra.org.