Samir Joubran

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Samir Joubran (1973-) was born in Nazareth to a renowned oud maker and to a singer mother. He started learning oud as early as the age of 5, and when he was 9 years old began studying at the Music Institute in Nazareth. He eventually attended and graduated from the Mohamed Abdul Wahab Conservatory in Cairo, Egypt.

A Palestinian living in Israel, he has repeatedly emphasized that his music is inspired by his love for Palestinian heritage and by a longing to achieve a Palestinian state living in peace. He has become one of the most talented Arab oud players, yet ironically has been unable to perform in most of the Arab world due to his status as an Israeli citizen.

He initially began performing alongside his brother Wissam Joubran, releasing their album Tamaas in 2003. The work has been described as a masterpiece, weaving together the brothers' natural raw talent, intimate knowledge of their instrument, as well as their impressive ability to improvise. In 2004, they were joined by their younger brother Adnan Joubran, forming Le Trio Joubran and releasing their hit album Randana in March 2005. Together they have played in many parts of the world, gaining particular fame in Western Europe. On February 19, 2006, Le Trio Joubran will make its debut at Carnegie Hall in New York City.