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Samir Zarif
After departing from New Orleans to live in New York, Samir Zarif attended the Manhattan School of Music where he helped form The Paislies, a sextet that went on to tour throughout the U.S. and Europe. In 2006, The Paislies released it’s first CD on the Fresh Sounds, New Talent Record Label. However, soon after it’s release, Zarif shifted his focus on a new group of musicians later to be named The Story. From 2006 to the present The Story has performed throughout the U.S., Canada and Europe performing at such venues as The Bimhuis (Amsterdam), Pizza Express (London), The Jazz Gallery (New York), and Upstairs (Montreal). In 2009, The Story released it’s Debut CD and is continuing to gain prestige around the world.
In January 2011, Zarif released his first recording as a leader entitled "Starting Point" on Mythology Records (David Binney's record label). Incorporating traditional & modern jazz with his passion for singing & songwriting in the genre of electronic and alternative music, Zarif has deemed his music as “Jazz Alternative.” This sub-genre on the jazz scene has become the niche that has made Samir Zarif a special addition to not only the jazz scene but also within the realm of the singer/songwriting’s world as well.
In addition his own working band which has featured many outstanding artists like Mike Moreno, Colin Stranahan & Nir Felder, Samir Zarif also currently tours and performs with Maria Neckam, The Story, Greg Ritchie, Hans Glawischnig Trio, "Sam Steele & Milan" and many others.
www.samirzarif.com
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Samir Zarif: Starting Point
by Raul d'Gama Rose
The excitement of hearing the voice from a musician of significant new talent knows no bounds. Violinist Majid Khaliq, vocalist Khalil Wilson, bassist Michael Feinberg, composer Gene Pritsker, and now saxophonist and storyteller Samir Zarif, are just beginning to fan the rapidly growing new brushfire of 21st century music. Zarif's talent is significant enough to merit Starting Point, his first album as leader, coming after paying his dues in Texas (where he grew up) and in New Orleans, the cradle ...
read moreSamir Zarif: Starting Point
by Mark F. Turner
Among the many new voices with something unique to say, Texas-born saxophonist Samir Zarif's Starting Point is as fresh a debut as they come. A member of the internationally acclaimed group The Story--whose names include rising stars, pianist John Escreet and saxophonist Lars Dietrich--Zarif also contributed to singer Maria Neckam's memorable Deeper (Sunnyside, 2010). In both cases, his horn has been impressive, but leading and composing his own release is a real opportunity for the saxophonist to shine.
read moreSamir Zarif: Starting Point
by Dan Bilawsky
Saxophonist Samir Zarif has experienced a wide cross section of the cultural landscape of the United States. Zarif grew up in Texas, spent his college years learning and performing in New Orleans, and then traveled north to New York for his studies at the Manhattan School of Music. While all of this isn't necessarily remarkable for a budding musician to take in, these experiences contrast sharply with the aural images that Zarif presents on Starting Point. Starting ...
read moreSaxophonist/Composer Samir Zarif Releases New CD Titled "Starting Point" on Mythology Records.
Source:
Two for the Show Media
"Starting Point," Samir Zarif's Debut CD as a leader, is a culmination of the many experiences and influences he has gained through his life thus far. Originally from Houston, Texas, Zarif grew up surrounded by a musical family. At the age of 6, Zarif began playing the violin through the inspiration of his sister, Tahirah Whittington, a renowned world-class cellist. Also, through the influence of his mother, Linda Zarif, a choral director and classical pianist, Samir Zarif also began performing ...
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Samir Zarif's Voice-Overs, Featuring Maria Neckam at Bowery Poetry Club
Source:
All About Jazz
The Bowery Poetry Club. 308 Bowery Street (Between Houston and Bleecker) F train to 2nd Ave, 6 to Bleecker. 212-614-0505
Band members: Maria Neckam - voice Lars Dietrich - alto sax Samir Zarif - tenor & soprano John Escreet - piano Aidan Carroll - bass Greg Ritchie - drums I have had the undeniable pleasure of connecting with many musicians that have ...
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