THE PROJECT
Under the Olive Tree is an original project that began with a photo of an olive tree next to the Parthenon
in Greece and a shared love of Mediterranean culture and music. For thousands of years, the olive tree
has been and still is of crucial importance to the regions and peoples of the Mediterranean basin, and its
branches are a universal symbol of peace. The olive tree is taken as the inspiration for an extraordinary
encounter between musicians from different backgrounds, and as the starting point for our journey.
The project celebrates the gift of life, love, joy and sadness, as well as tolerance, cultural diversity and
peaceful coexistence. With original compositions and traditional pieces, a dynamic dialogue is established
between the musicians. Music brings us together, and under the olive tree we hope to rediscover our
roots and our ties.
Under The Olive Tree premiered in Geneva on the 23rd of September at the VIII edition of the Fête de
L’Olivier 2023.
Under The Olive Tree is made up of musicians from Morocco, Greece, Spain, Iraq and Iran, with a
dynamic repertoire that includes both original compositions and traditional pieces. From flamenco to
popular Greek folklore, the audience is drawn into a world of fascinating rhythms and melodies, with each
musician expressing their art in an incredible connection both to one another and to the audience.
The project also includes the screening of the documentary “The Golden Harvest” by Alia Yunis, a
6,000-year old love story in which the filmmaker tries to understand the profound, often troubled
relationship between the people of Mediterranean and their olive trees. Her journey takes her to
unexpected places--including home. Through the eyes and experiences of a diverse cast, from Palestine
to Italy Greece and Spain, we encounter a story of faith, love and sharing.
LINE-UP:
HAMID AJBAR - arab vocals
CHRYSA PAPADOPOULOU - greek vocals
ALKIS ZOPOGLOU - kanun
MOHAMED AHADDAF - oud
PUCHERO - flamenco guitar
NOORI ALJBOORI - violin
EMAD GHAJJOU - percussions
ARIN KESHISHI - bass guitar
PAPU GIGENA - cajón, percussions
FAUZIA BENEDETTI - concept
PARTNERS: Marmoucha Foundation (marmoucha.nl) and Medigrecian Productions
medigrεcian productions
+4177 502 90 58 CH
+41 79 557 27 16 CH
+30 6947 189 109 GR
contact@medigrecian.com
info@medigrecian.com
www.medigrecian.com