The Rhythm of Ramadan Comes to Jerusalem and the West Bank

September 03, 2009

Jerusalem: The U.S. Consulate General in Jerusalem welcomed American percussionist Tom Teasley and vocalist Charles Williams for The Rhythm of Ramadan, a cultural exchange program including three days of performances and workshops in the West Bank and Jerusalem from September 1-3, 2009. Hundreds of Palestinians attended live post-Iftar musical performances in Ramallah, the Old City and Shu'fat refugee camp, and local musicians collaborated with the American artists in various workshops and jam sessions in Bethlehem, Hebron, and Jerusalem. The Rhythm of Ramadan was sponsored by the U.S. Consulate General in Jerusalem.

Tom Teasley and Charles Williams are critically acclaimed American musicians. Their album, entitled Word-Beat, is an inspiring presentation of original music and spoken word. They combine percussion with history's greatest words about justice, peace, and life. The American Consulate General invited them to participate in the Ramadan tradition of bringing friends together and celebrating the spirit of community and generosity during Ramadan. Speaking at a performance, the Consulate General's Public Affairs Officer Frank Finver quoted President Barak Obama's Ramadan Message, in which he called for a new beginning for a sustained effort among Americans and Muslims "to listen to each other, to learn from each other, to respect one another, and to seek common ground."

Musician Tom Teasley followed this by saying, "music is an international language that can bring people closer together. It is an honor to learn from Palestinians and to share my music with them during the holy month of Ramadan. We created beautiful music together, which I will take back to share with American audiences."

The Rhythm of Ramadan is part of the American Consulate General's efforts to reach out to Palestinians during Ramadan. In addition to the musical performances, hundreds of Palestinians will participate in American-sponsored Iftars, American-themed Quiz Nights, volunteer projects, theater productions, library/community book donations, and school beautification projects throughout the month.

For more information please contact the U.S. Consulate's Press Office at 02-622-6908 or 02-622-6909 or Hassna Dajani at 054-678-8455.