Dandanat 2007

A gathering of Swedish and Palestine bands, the 2007 Dandanat Festival held at the International Center of Bethlehem (ICB) began on Thursday, July 6. Young adult rock, hip hop and rap musicians spend their days in music workshops, sharing ideas and preparing for one of three concerts held during the four day festival. Swedish band members have the opportunity to learn about Palestinian and Israeli culture during their tour, while Palestinians learn and explore new musical ideas from their European counterparts.

One Palestinian rap artist living in Ramallah, Jad, says his lyrics are designed both to tell of his people's suffering under occupation, while encouraging listeners to be proactive, productive and hopeful. Friday's concert will mark his debut performance in Bethlehem.

Young singer, guitarist and budding composer Garo Demerjian (pictured below) also made his debut at the ICB's Addar Auditorium. Garo has been a member of the Bethlehem Star Band since its launch 5 months ago. Though currently a student at Bethlehem University, Garo has accepted a place on the bachelor of music program at Amman Conservatory, Jordan, beginning in August.

Garo's departure highlights the necessity for the West Bank to offer its own collegiate music program, a need that will be met first within the coming years by Dar Al-Kalima College.

Gospel Award

The 2006 Gospel Award, based in Hamburg, Germany, granted two music institutions, one in Israel and one in Palestine, financial support to continue their work in building bridges through music and celebrating diversity. The Gospel Award presented the grants on a recent Wishes of Peace concert tour.

I [Matt Middleton] gratefully accepted the award on behalf of Bethlehem Star Music, presented during a performance of our choir and chamber trio, joined by guest Palestinian and German musicians. Below is an excerpt from the live interview:

What is your philosophy in the music program?

My philosophy is quite simple: to let people make music. The talent is here. The motivation is here. The people are here. At the International Center and Christmas Church, we provide a place where people can meet to rehearse and perform. It is exciting for me when I see people smile – when they are having fun and when music brightens their day.

What role does music play at the International Center?

Music is only one of many programs hosted by the International Center. We celebrate life through music, art, education, and sometimes just sitting quietly and enjoying a delicious cappuccino.

Is there a chance that music will actually break down the walls in our hearts?

I dare say that today, at least on this stage, you will not find the walls of which you are speaking. Our choir, and all of our musicians, comes from a huge variety of nationalities, cultures and backgrounds. In our choir alone we have people from Palestine, Germany, Austria, Sweden, England and the United States.

Walls in Bethlehem today are not found so much in people’s hearts as on the ground. While our music will most likely not bring down the wall that surrounds Bethlehem, at least, in the midst of occupation, we find reasons to sing and be happy.