Faraj Abyad: The Loyalty of the Poet

Compositions by Faraj Abyad
Musical direction by Layth Sidiq

Musical arrangements by Naseem Alatrash
Rhythmic arrangements by Zafir Tawil

Poems by
Samaw’al Ibn ‘Adiya
Souad Mohammed al-Sabah
Amal Al Sahlawi
Maysoon Al-Suwaidan
Naim Askar

Music by
Faraj Abyad, oud and vocals
Layth Sidiq, violin
Zafir Tawil, percussion
Naseem Alatrash, cello
Tamer Pinarbasi, qanun

In this new commission by MetLiveArts, The Loyalty of the Poet sets Arabic poetry to new music by Syrian American composer, vocalist, and musician Faraj Abyad.

The Loyalty of the Poet is rooted in the work of sixth-century Arabian warrior-poet Samaw’al Ibn ‘Adiya, whose work has long been admired by Muslims, Jews, and Christians alike. Abyad extends the trajectory of Samaw’al's poetry by adding new writings by three living Arabic poets.

Maysoon Al-Suwaidan (Kuwait) is notable for her creativity, emotional depth, and knowledge of Arabic poetic meter. The poetry of Amal Al Sahlawi (United Arab Emirates) “acts as a source of hope in a way that no material means can offer.” And as a mentor to younger writers, Souad Mohammed al-Sabah (Kuwait) is a dominant figure in the cultural and intellectual life of the Arab world. Her poems bring sharp focus to women’s causes and human rights.

Together these works explore themes of love, longing, separation, and the enduring power of poetry.

This program is made possible by the Art Jameel Fund and The Howard & Sarah D. Solomon Foundation.

Photo credit: Stephanie Berger.

© 2021 The Metropolitan Museum of Art