In Lebanon and across its diaspora, a new generation of artists is emerging with sounds that resonate strongly with their times. For decades, the capital Beirut has been a cultural hub in the Swana* region, offering fertile ground for the emergence of new scenes and sounds. From popular shaabi to electro tarab, from Arab hip-hop to baladi rhythms, Lebanese talent is charting new musical directions, inspired by local with contemporary aesthetics. At the same time, the country's musical ecosystem is bubbling with venues, festivals, labels and international collaborations that have been multiplying in recent years.
The Masar Music program was created to promote this range of artistic expression and possibilities. Supported by the Institut Français, Masar is a scheme to strengthen the Lebanese music sector, promoting emerging talent and developing market opportunities. This Keynote at MaMA will present Masar with a delegation of Lebanese industry pros sharing an overview of the market and its trends, as well as touring, residency and collaboration opportunities. Masar also presents RUST in the official MaMA selection, an electro-tarab duo who will perform on Friday, October 18 at the FGO-Barbara!
*SWANA: South West Asia/North Africa
