An accomplished multi-instrumentalist, Racy has done much to promote

an appreciation for Middle Eastern music in the West. Born in Lebanon,

Racy came to the US in 1968, where he earned his Masters and Doctorate

degrees from the University of Illinois before accepting a position as

Professor of Ethnimusicology at UCLA. His recordings for various labels

provide a showcase for his mastery of the flute-like nay and the clarinet-

like mijwiz, as well as the stringed instruments 'ud and buzuq, both

important to Middle Eastern styles. Racy is currently working on a book

tentatively titled The Art of Ecstacy in Arab Music. (AMG)

Ancient Egypt: A Tribute

This musical tribute to ancient Egypt was originally composed in 1978 for

the King Tutankhamun exhibit at the Seattle Art Museum. It was inspired

by the artistry of the ancient treasures and the religious symbolism of

the Egyptian Book of the Dead, which suggested titles of the compositions.

Only traditional Near Eastern instruments were used in making this

recording, like the nay, salamiyyah, buzuq, mijwiz, mizmar and others.

(AMG)

1 The Lamentations of Isis Racy 3:07

2 The Land of the Blessed Racy 6:55

3 Hymn to Osiris Racy 5:28

4 The Boat of Millions of Years Racy 4:52

5 The Holy Lotus Racy 3:38

6 Funeral Procession Racy 5:06

7 Hymn for the Sunrise Racy 5:23

8 The Triumph of the Deceased Racy 5:30

Sitemap