Amir ElSaffar
Amir ElSaffar is an Iraqi-American trumpeter, composer, and santoor player who masterfully bridges jazz and traditional Iraqi Maqam music. Born in Illinois to an Iraqi father and American mother, ElSaffar grew up steeped in both cultures, later studying jazz trumpet in the U.S. and traveling to Iraq to learn the centuries-old vocal and instrumental techniques of Maqam. His work—like recent releases *The Other Shore*, *Crisis*, and *Alchemy*—often feels like a conversation between worlds, blending intricate Middle Eastern rhythms and microtonal melodies with the improvisational freedom of jazz. A visionary bandleader, he’s known for projects like the Two Rivers Ensemble and his collaborations with artists across genres, all while keeping the soulful, poetic spirit of Iraqi tradition alive. Whether through haunting vocals, fiery trumpet solos, or the shimmering tones of the santoor, ElSaffar’s music is a celebration of cultural hybridity and human connection.
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