Qadim is a word found in both Arabic and Hebrew meaning ‘ancient’ as well as ‘that which will come.’

The Qadim Ensemble’s repertoire includes folk songs in Arabic, Turkish, Ladino, Yemenite Hebrew, Greek and Armenian. The ensemble aims to celebrate the common musical and spiritual heritage of these cultures while honoring the great diversity found within them.

Acclaimed for their passionate performances, The Qadim Ensemble is comprised of accomplished and acclaimed musicians. The San Francisco based band has attracted a growing global audience who are responding to their authentic musicianship and timely message of peace and cross-cultural appreciation. Their album Eastern Wind reached #7 on Billboard’s World Music chart.

Sirvan Manhoobi started his musical journey at age 13 studying tar/sehtar with Persian masters, and later choosing oud as his primary instrument. He has studied classical and folk music of Iran with masters such as the Kamkars and Mohammad Reza Lotfi. He received Best Soloist awards at Iranian music festivals.