Bold improvisation and rich heritage await at this upcoming event
Get ready for a night where tradition meets innovation as Boom.Diwan takes over the Red Theater at NYU Abu Dhabi this January for an unforgettable jazz experience.
On the night of the performance, Kuwaiti maritime and desert heritage will meet the improvisational spirit of jazz, creating a sound that’s both deeply rooted and refreshingly modern.
The ensemble premieres fresh compositions drawing from the Khaleej’s rhythmic heritage while leaving plenty of space for bold, contemporary jazz dialogue.
Some of this material is connected to their forthcoming album, recorded during the very week of the Abu Dhabi concert, meaning audiences will get a first taste of music that’s still sizzling from the creative oven.
Joining the core ensemble are some heavyweights in the global jazz scene.
South African pianist Nduduzo Makhathini, a Blue Note artist and long-time collaborator, brings his signature blend of spirituality, improvisation, and cosmic energy, returning to the Boom.Diwan universe after appearing on their debut EP Minarets.
Then there’s bassist Liany Mateo, whose work on the acclaimed Live in the Khaleej! album adds depth, groove, and unshakable drive to the ensemble’s sound.
Rounding out the trio of special guests is drummer Elé Howell, fresh from a performance at Lincoln Center’s globalFEST, whose intensity, sensitivity, and modern jazz sensibility perfectly complement Boom.Diwan’s improvisational ethos.
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Together, this group builds a shared musical language that honours tradition while fearlessly exploring new directions.
The story behind Boom.Diwan is just as captivating as the music itself. Named after the historic Kuwaiti Boom ship, once used for pearl diving and trade, and the Diwan, the traditional gathering place for storytelling and music, the ensemble embodies the spirit of cultural exchange.
It’s about connection, collaboration, and creating something entirely new while staying rooted in heritage.
Leading the ensemble is Dr. Ghazi Al-Mulaifi, Grammy-nominated musician, bandleader, and NYUAD Professor of Music.
A Venice Biennale artist with a PhD from NYU, Al-Mulaifi has spent years pioneering Khaleeji Jazz, blending Arabian Gulf traditions with contemporary improvisation to make the region’s music resonate on a global stage.
With the support of NYUAD’s Internal Grants Creativity, Art & Publication Program, the Music Program, and the Division of Arts & Humanities, this performance promises to be a night of sonic exploration, cross-cultural dialogue, and sheer artistry.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this one-of-a-kind musical experience; a night where jazz meets heritage, and every note tells a story.
Free. 14 January, The Arts Center at NYUAD, Saadiyat Island. For further information, visit The Arts Center at NYUAD
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