Wanees Zarour

Wanees Zarour is a Lecturer and Director of the Middle East Music Ensemble at the University of Chicago's Department of Music. Specializing in Maqam music, he teaches courses on Middle Eastern Rhythms and Maqam Theory, and leads masterclasses nationally. His work bridges Western, Middle Eastern, and South American musical traditions, exemplified by his album Quarter to Midnight and collaborations with East Loop and the Chicago Immigrant Orchestra.

Research interests focus on cross-cultural musical fusion, particularly the intersection of Maqam with Black-American music traditions. He has performed in major international festivals and recorded with renowned artists.

Since 2010, Zarour has directed the 45-member Middle East Music Ensemble, dedicated to preserving and innovating Middle Eastern musical performance. His ensembles include the Wanees Zarour Ensemble and collaborations with guitarist Fareed Haque.