Alwani
Middle Eastern Orchestra

 Alwani orchestra is dedicated to promoting the rich and beautiful heritage of Middle Eastern music in a professional and authentic manner blended in western techniques and styles. A core aspect of our mission is to challenge and counteract the negative stereotypes often perpetuated by Western media regarding the Middle East. Through our performances, we strive to showcase the beauty and diversity of this vibrant musical tradition.

We also aim to provide a sense of home for those who have been displaced due to conflict by performing the music of their childhood. This initiative fosters a feeling of belonging and engagement within the community, allowing our audience to reconnect with their roots.

Additionally, our orchestra values the importance of new compositions and actively seeks to provide opportunities for talented composers to create and premiere innovative works within the realm of Middle Eastern music. We take great pride in contributing to the expansion of this repertoire, enriching both our performances and the broader musical landscape.

Randa is an Iraqi-American pianist and conductor. Born and raised in Baghdad and relocated to the United States in 2012. She received a B.A in Music with an emphasis on piano from San Diego State University. Additionally, Randa has worked with a variety of professional and collegiate ensembles across the United States including The United States Marine Band in San Diego and ICWC Orchestra in Georgia. She held the assistant conductor position at the Interharmony Music Festival in Italy along with being featured as a guest conductor with the Greater San Diego Music Coterie Orchestra.

Randa has participated in various conducting workshops where she had the opportunity to learn from Adrian Gnam, Jeffery Meyer, and Daniel Stewart. Today , Randa serves as a pianist, arranger, and music director of Alwani Middle Eastern Orchestra with the goal of bringing the beautiful middle eastern music to light.

Our orchestra is comprised of exceptionally talented professionals from diverse backgrounds, each bringing a wealth of experience and expertise. A distinctive hallmark of our ensemble is that much of our music is arranged and orchestrated by Alwani musicians , which not only sets us apart but also infuses each performance with a unique blend of creativity and virtuosity.

Our musicians possess extensive experience in both Middle Eastern and Western musical traditions, allowing us to achieve a harmonious fusion that enhances the richness of our performances. This diverse background enables us to explore a wide range of musical styles and interpretations, creating a dynamic and engaging experience for our audiences.

We take great pride in this unique balance, as it reflects our commitment to artistry and innovation. Our orchestra is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of musical expression while honoring the rich cultural heritages that inspire us.