The concept of Šaʿabī, which means “of the people” in Arabic, is amplified by this remarkable orchestra composed of twenty-eight virtuoso singers and musicians, which includes only one woman. Their compositions reflect the whole of Algeria, from past to present. The Orchestre Chaâbi de Montréal (OCM) proves that the beautiful spirit of this Maghrebian land is just as vibrant here, far from the Mediterranean. Its conductor Mourad Taleb went all the way to Algiers to vouch for their success. Formed in 2017, the OCM is the crème de la crème of music lovers for whom Chaâbi, Andalusian vocal traditions and Kabyle songs, come together as a whole, a timeless melody to be preserved like a precious jewel.

Savour their cocktail of authentic instrumentation, which includes strings (oud, Algerian mandole, guitar, violin, banjo), the fhal (reed flute), piano, tambourine and darbuka. The power of music and a harmony of the senses in honour of Algeria create an immersive experience beyond imagined journeys, free of borders by land or sea. The OCM is an invitation to poetry and enchantment under a starry sky, like a magical camel ride along time-honoured lyrical paths. So, start practising vibrating your tongue against your palate, it’s the perfect compliment to their performance!