Rahim Al Haj: Letters from Iraq

Born in Baghdad, Rahim Al Haj is a master of the oud—a stringed instrument with a history dating back 5,000 years. Music has been a constant in his life throughout his years as an Iraqi, a political refugee, and now an American citizen.

Created from the text of actual letters expressing the emotions of Iraqis living in their war-torn country, Letters from Iraq is a poignant telling through music of war, its aftermath and its consequences. These stories become more than an aural presentation. They are truly a virtual visual reality at the hand of Rahim and his quintet, each piece presenting a unique scenario, together weaving a complete tale of devastation, pain, redemption and, ultimately, hope.