photo by Deborah Kory   Dead Sea Strolls ìAs an artist in residence in Arad, Israel from October 1997 to June 1998, I had the opportunity to compose music inspired first hand by the landscape, culture, language and profound spirituality of the Middle East. Situated in the Negev desert in the south of Israel, Arad overlooks the Dead Sea, (the lowest point on Earth) with the mountains of Jordan easily visible in the eastern skyline. The melodies and sense of musical form, color and texture of Dead Sea Strolls emerged from my walks and contemplative experiences in the desert, the Galilee, along the Mediterranean shoreline and the streets of Jerusalem. These tunes are my short stories, and I hope you find joy and tranquility in your listening experienceî  -Sheldon Sands

Born of an intimate encounter with the land and cultures of the Middle East, Dead Sea Strolls is a spirited collaboration in the ethnic/world music genre between composer/keyboardist Sheldon Sands and noted Israeli, Palestinian, and American musicians.  Drawing on the rich ancient modes and intricate rhythms of the region, evocative melodies are brought to life with  exquisite performances and burning improvisations on oriental and western instruments.  

In Tel Aviv: Yinon Muelem, Eyal Sela and Waseem Bishara	With members of Sheva: Mosh Ben-Ari, and Udi Ben-Kna’an