Uplifted Voices brings together a stellar lineup of performer-composers from the Silkroad Ensemble in a series of pieces that highlight each artist’s musical storytelling. These compositions, often inspired by their homeland, ancestors, community, and family, represent previously under-recognized voices from around the world, offering a fresh perspective on the history and migration of music.
This unique program showcases a synthesis of global musical traditions and contemporary innovation, with each artist contributing their unique voice to craft a shared musical experience. From the Tuscarora Nation in North Carolina, singer-songwriter and activist Pura Fé blends traditional Native American sounds with contemporary Americana, honoring her indigenous heritage while celebrating its enduring relevance. Japanese multi-percussionist Haruka Fujii has gained international acclaim as a prominent solo percussionist and marimbist, known for her interpretations of contemporary music and premieres of works by leading composers. Scottish harpist and composer Maeve Gilchrist intertwines jazz and folk while staying true to her Celtic roots, expanding the role of the harp into new, unexplored territories. Acclaimed cellist Karen Ouzounian centers her artistic practice in her love of the collaborative process and the development of adventurous new works. Lebanese violinist and composer Layale Chaker merges the intricate sounds of Arabic Maqam with jazz and contemporary classical elements, inviting listeners on a journey into new soundscapes. Mazz Swift, a violinist and composer, brings a deeply innovative approach, fusing classic African American music, electronica, and mindfulness, with improvisation as a central theme across genres.
Featuring:
Pura Fé, Lap-steel Slide Guitar, Voice
Haruka Fujii, Percussion
Maeve Gilchrist, Celtic Harp, Voice
Karen Ouzounian, Cello
Layale Chaker, Violin, Vocals
Mazz Swift, Violin, Vocals
2025 TOUR DATES
March 28 — Seattle, WA — Meany Center for the Performing Arts
March 29 — Port Angeles, WA — Field Arts & Events Hall
March 30 — Vancouver, BC — The Chan Centre for the Performing Arts
April 1 — Portland, OR — Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall
April 3 — Carmel, CA — Sunset Cultural Center
April 4 — Livermore, CA — Livermore Valley Performing Arts Center
April 6 — Tucson, AZ — Centennial Hall
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As a social impact organization and home to the Grammy Award-winning musical ensemble, Silkroad works to inspire collaboration in innovative ways that add more equity and justice into the world through the power of the arts. Artistic Director Rhiannon Giddens has had a lifelong mission of shining light on previously under-recognized voices and overhauling our understanding of the history of American music to make it reflect the real impact people of all colors have made.
Through community engagement, education, and prison reform under the guise of middle school and collegiate programs, visual art, music, and performances, Silkroad and our partners amplify artists as culture bearers and community leaders in traditional and non-traditional spaces alike, engaging marginalized and underserved communities through the universal language of music.
in the news:
Get to know Silkroad Ensemble Cellist/Composer, Karen Ouzounian
George Mason Center for the Arts
