Experimental ensemble bridges cultures and genres with diverse music and poetic vocals!

Ru’ya—which means “foresight” or “vision” in Arabic—is an ensemble that brings together diverse musical traditions, led by Vancouver-based guitarist and oud player Gord Grdina, with vocalist Ghalia Benali (Belgium/Tunisia), pianist Matt Mitchell (U.S.), violinist Eylem Basaldi (Türkiye/U.S.), percussionist Hamin Honari (Canada), and drummer Christian Lillinger (Germany).

Ru’ya is the culmination of 20 years of musical exploration that started with Grdina’s debut album, Think Like the Waves, recorded with Gary Peacock and Paul Motian. This led to projects examining the edges of tonality and including elements of Persian classical music and Arabic maqam. This new program uses an inclusive focus while creating space for each of these incredible musicians to freely express themselves in their unique voices.

The concept is taken further in collaboration with Ghalia Benali’s idea of poets as the true chroniclers of human history, capturing emotional truths, love, longing, trauma, and memory. This work transforms poetic texts into universal artistic forms, proving that the deeper we dig into our roots, the more we resonate with others. By aligning differences, we discover shared emotions and end up speaking the same language, one of humanity, connection, and beauty.

Ru’ya demonstrates ways music and poetry can transcend borders and blend seamlessly with diverse contemporary artistic expression while we honor our origins.

This show is presented by Capilano University / BlueShore Financial Centre for the Performing Arts as part of the CapU Global Roots Series / CapU Jazz Series, in partnership with Infidels Jazz.