Explore Middle Eastern sounds with Arabian Dances by Brian Balmages that combines authentic traditional melodies and rhythms with original music. After a haunting opening, authentic Middle Eastern percussion instruments create the groove that accompanies the folk song “Ala Dal’ona.” As the orchestration builds, original themes are intertwined before the percussion ensemble becomes the focus of the third section. The final melody, “Tafta Hindi,” develops until it morphs into an ostinato over a magnificent presentation of the original theme that is found throughout the work. A riveting ending brings this thrilling work to a dynamic close! (6:30)