The Georges Lammam Ensemble
Featuring Elias Lammam,
Master of the Arabic accordion

The accordion has been a part of Arabic music since the early 1900s, but it was only in the second half of the 20th century that accordionists began tuning their instruments to Middle Eastern scales (maqams). These scales make prominent use of microtones (notes not found in Western scales) and are impossible to play on standard accordions. Elias Lammam is a master of this style of accordion that brought the instrument from the background of Arab orchestras to the concert stage. Having adapted the rich history of Arabic music theory to a Western instrument, he is able to convey the beauty and tones of Middle Eastern music on his piano accordion.

Elias comes from a family of musicians in Lebanon and picked up the accordion at the age of 11. He studied with the accordionist who accompanied the legendary singer Fairuz and debuted with his brother, Georges, on violin. The brothers have been playing together ever since, and upon moving to San Fransisco in 1999, they have been teaching and performing classical Arabic music both inside and outside the conservatory. They are joined by their third brother, Antoine, on Arabic percussion instruments. Together, the Lammam brothers showcase the amazing artistry of classical Arabic music, from the lush microtones of Arabic maqams to the wild improvisations this music inspires. Discover a whole new world of accordion music with the Georges Lammam Ensemble.