‘To Those Who Came Before Us’
Joseph Tawadros’ 20th studio recording sees him totally solo and in his element. Drawing upon the ancient music tradition of taqasim, Tawadros performs a soulful meditative hour-long improvisation in this tradition.
After 20 albums, this will be the greatest feat of solo creativity, a long extended solo work using the Arabic madam system and the other influences picked up in his 20-year recording career.
“For my 20th album, I wanted to be solo. Solitary. Lost within the confines of my beloved Taqasim, the traditional Arabic musical art form of improvisation,” says Tawadros. “I wanted to honour the people that have come before me, who have inspired my thoughts, my dreams, my feelings, my musical phrases and directed me on the path I’m on today.”
Taqasim is the traditional musical art form of improvisation. It is based on the madam system and shows the prowess of the player through modulations and shifts in modes. Joseph’s 1-hour taqasim is a challenging work, engaging the listener and allowing them to be lost in an extended modal journey. Joseph is constantly evolving as a musician and composer and the music on the new album will feature a modern take on taqasim.
Update: To Those Who Came Before Us won the ARIA Award for Best World Music Album in November 2023, bringing Joseph’s total ARIA Award count to 8.