Ensemble Nava

The Nava ensemble (Nava - A mode in Eastern classical music) plays primarily music of the Jews of Bukhara and of the peoples of Central Asia - Uzbekistan and Tadjikistan.

The five musicians of this ensemble perform music typical of the local and the Jewish traditions, including folk songs for the holidays, family festivities, dance music and Bukharian classical compositions.

Alongside traditional works, the ensemble also plays works by modern composers as well as original works written by Shlomo Takhlov, the musical director of the ensemble. Likewise, traditional female vocals called suzanda form part of the ensemble repertoire.

Bukharian classical music, called shashmakam, is based upon a rich tradition hundreds of years old, including themes ranging from deep philosophical contemplation of the sublime, sadness, joy and the pleasures of daily life.

The CD is rich in authentic ethnic classical music and includes the famous song 'In Beautiful Bukhara' in a wonderful combination of Hebrew and Bukhara languages.