This multitalented seven-member ensemble presents an ancient rhythmic musical blend of Turkish, Persian, Chinese, Russian and Hebrew sounds. It includes Allo Alaev’s two sons, Ariel and Amin, and his grandchildren Zvika, Allen, Amir and the youngest, nine-year-old Aviva. The Alaev family’s repertoire features unique adaptations of inherited ancient Tajikistani songs and Jewish Buchharian compositions.
Allo Alaev was born in Samarkand, in 1932, a major station on the Silk Road. Samarkand stands at an ancient cultural crossroad and its music is a blend of Turkish, Persian, Chinese and Russian.
Allo’s father, Nisan, was an acclaimed singer and his mother, Adino, was considered the most brilliant doyra (frame drum) artist in the whole region of Samarcande. Alaev took up the doyra at an early age, made rapid progress and was soon appointed the first percussionist of the folk Opera Company of the Tajikistan capital Dushanbe.
During the 1960s and 70s he toured Europe, the far East and Africa as a member of several Soviet folk troupes. He received numerous international prizes for his performance. In 1991 the Alaev family immigrated to Israel and made an immediate impact on the local music scene.
Allo accomplished what so many artist wish: to continue the tradition in the family. Three generations perform together on stage and create an intimate and happy feast of music. The presence of the younger generation connect the traditional to the mainstream musical world.
Today, the multitalented ensemble includes Allo Alaev’s two sons, Ariel and Amin and his grandchildren Zvika, Allen, Amir and Aviva.
The Alaev family include in their repertory ancient Tajikistani songs and Jewish Buchharian compositions passed on in generations and now performed with their own unique adaptions.
Discography:
The Alaev Family And Tamir Muskat (Olamalé, 2011)
Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.
