Dhafer Youssef is at the vanguard of a movement in contemporary music that bridges the gap between Eastern and Western influences. Considered the most inventive oud player today, over the course of his two and a half decade career Dhafer has released nine studio albums showcasing his musicianship and ability to transcend genres among jazz, electronic and world fusion.
His impressive catalog of critically acclaimed releases has earned him the 2006 BBC Award for World Music and 2017 Edison Award, media praise from publications such as The Guardian, The Times, The Evening Standard, Downbeat Magazine, and Jazzwise among others, and a spot on the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Culture Organization’s 2015 All-Star Global Concert. He has also found success in the world of musical scores working with the legendary Ridley Scott (“Exodus: Gods and Kings”), James Horner (“The Amazing Spider-Man”, “Black Gold”) and Dave McKean (“Luna”).

On stage with Youssef for this concert, Eivind Aarset, a guitarist with a unique musical vision that absorbs and reflects all manner of music while retaining an enviable individualism and high quality craftsmanship that can span from quiet intimacy to searing intensity.
As one of Norway’s most in-demand guitarists, he has worked with Jon Hassell, David Sylvian, Bill Laswell, Jan Garbarek, Paolo Fresu, Marilyn Mazur, J.Peter Schwalm, Mike Manieri, Marc Ducret, Michel Benitas Ethics, Martux-M, Stefano Battaglia, Michele Rabbia, Talvin Singh, Andy Sheppar and Nils Petter Molvaer. He has collaborated with Dhafer Youssef, both live and in the studio.

Dhafer Youssef: vocals, oud, live electronics
Eivind Aarset: electric guitar, live electronics

The concert is part of the Florence Art Week 2023 programme (September 28 – October 8).