Sister Marie Keyrouz

Lebanese nun and vocalist known for performances of Maronite and Byzantine liturgical chant; associated as leader with the Ensemble de la Paix and recorded for Harmonia Mundi.

Sings in Syriac and Arabic (reviewed material). Review and album credit: L'Ensemble de la Paix - Sister Marie Keyrouz - Harmonia Mundi, 1991. Instrumental accompaniment on the reviewed recording includes nay, ud and qanun. Repertoire: Maronite chant (liturgical), Byzantine/melchite sacred songs.

A detailed, admiring review of Sister Marie Keyrouz's Traditional Maronite Chants (Harmonia Mundi, 1991). The reviewer highlights the spiritual intensity of the Maronite liturgical repertoire, Keyrouz's vocal melismas, and the plaintive character of chants in Syriac and Arabic. Instrumental colors (nay, ud, qanun) and choral moments are noted as reinforcing a melancholic, profound atmosphere.

For:Listeners of sacred and liturgical music, fans of Middle Eastern chant, world-music and choral enthusiasts.