Join Hancher's Micah Ariel James and Chuy Renteria for a conversation with Kinan Azmeh's CityBand about the intersection between art and identity. Hancher’s Embracing Complexity project takes a multidisciplinary and collaborative approach to building understanding of contemporary Islamic cultures and Muslim identity. This conversation will be recorded for distribution on the podcast Hancher Presents.

Formed in 2006 in New York City, the Kinan Azmeh's CityBand immediately gained recognition for their virtuosic and high energy performance. With this New York ensemble, Azmeh strives to reach a balance between classical music, jazz, and the music of his homeland, Syria. Azmeh’s expressive clarinet meets Kyle Sanna’s rustic guitar, soaring at times over the dynamic and volatile backdrop of John Hadfield’s percussion and Josh Myers’ double bass. Azmeh's compositions include several works for solo, orchestra, and chamber music; film, live illustration, and electronics. Azmeh is also a member of Yo-Yo Ma’s Silk Road Ensemble with whom he was awarded a Grammy in 2017.

Light refreshments will be provided.