Assyrian jazz shines at sold-out Sydney Opera House concert

More than 400 Assyrian music enthusiasts filled Studio Hall at the Sydney Opera House for a sold-out performance on 30 November 2024, celebrating the release of Evan Yako’s latest album, '6774 Assyria Ave: Jazz Town'. The concert featured a stunning repertoire of Yako’s original jazz compositions and arrangements with a surprising introduction of RAWEH and infusion of the traditional Assyrian melody and modern jazz music, also including three beloved classics — Fly Me to the Moon, Autumn Leaves, and Over the Rainbow — beautifully reimagined in Assyrian by Marlen Shukur and in English by Carmel Mesiti. SBS Assyrian was on hand to capture the audience's reactions and reflections on this unforgettable musical event.

Singers Marlen Shukur and Carmel Mesiti on stage with Evan Yako on drums. Credit: Sargon Odisho