Malek Jandali ‘97, Queens University of Charlotte Composer-in-Residence, to Release New Album “Concertos”

Queens University of Charlotte celebrates the release of Malek Jandali’s latest album, “Concertos,” on May 12. Released by Cedille Records, the album consists of two concertos, “Concerto for Violin and Orchestra” featuring violinist Rachel Barton Pine, and “Concerto for Clarinet and Orchestra” featuring clarinetist Anthony McGill. Marin and Malek

The concertos, recorded with the ORF Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra, are conducted by Marin Alsop, a champion of Jandali’s work. Alsop is one of the foremost conductors of our time and represents a powerful and inspiring voice.

The album highlights musicians’ backgrounds that are usually underrepresented in classical music and consists of strong social justice themes and cultural sentiments. Jandali’s music is dedicated to preserving and presenting the rich heritage of his homeland, Syria, and relays messages of hope, peace and humanity.

Jandali describes “Concerto for Violin and Orchestra” as a “concerto for women.” It was created to honor women, including those who have been brutalized and victimized during the unrest and violence in Syria, in addition to the pioneering women of Queens University of Charlotte’s founding as a liberal arts institution dedicated to the education and empowerment of women. The concerto features soloist Rachel Barton Pine, a leading interpreter of the great classical masterworks. Pine, an American concert violinist, performs with the world’s leading orchestras and thrills audiences with her dazzling technique, lustrous tone and emotional honesty.

“As an artist, it was obvious to select Rachel Barton Pine and to dedicate this concerto to all women who thrive with courage,” said Jandali. “It is my duty to bring like-minded artists together in a symphony for peace – to unite, perform, preserve, present, and record for generations to come.”

“Concerto for Clarinet and Orchestra” features Anthony McGill, principal clarinet of the New York Philharmonic, and the first African American principal player in the organization’s history. McGill serves on the faculty of The Julliard School and The Curtis Institute of Music and is the recipient of the 2020 Avery Fisher Prize, one of classical music’s most significant awards recognizing the highest level of musical excellence. Jandali wrote this piece specifically with McGill in mind and dedicated it “in memory of victims of injustice everywhere.”

“In the midst of the pain and violence and injustice in the world, all we are left with is the ability to pour our hearts and our souls into something maybe more beautiful, more powerful, so it can communicate throughout all time and live on,” said McGill. “And when we care about things, like love, beauty, and humanity, and we express it through music, we hope that we make the world in our small little ways, a little more beautiful and a little bit better.”

Jandali was named Queens’ first composer-in-residence in October 2020. This appointment has allowed him to compose and produce major symphonic works commissioned by Queens and to engage American orchestras, including the Charlotte Symphony, for world premiere performances.

“At the end of the day, we only have that sound that transcends into your heart without your permission,” said Jandali. “What I am trying to do is preserve my culture through music by integrating these ancient melodies that represent my people and my heritage that nobody can destroy.”

“Concertos” will be available for download on music streaming platforms and at all Qatar Museum gift shops.