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Souhayl Guesmi

Souhayl Guesmi is an emerging Tunisian composer and pianist, whose work blends elements of romanticism and modernism with traditional Tunisian music. As a circumstance of the time and place, his music is largely informed by the Tunisian Revolution that prompted the Arab Spring in 2010. The great composers Scriabin and Ravel have had a substantial influence over the tonal development of Guesmi's works, which is reflected in its complex impressionistic nature. Guesmi's early works create a very romantic atmosphere; through the structure of these early compositions we begin to experience a sophisticated language of tone, texture and color. Guesmi first started experimenting with music when he was fifteen, after being given the opportunity to learn to play the keyboard at a newly opened conservatory in his region. Through this experience Guesmi soon took interest in the his local contemporary music scene, exploring a variety of styles for instance rock n' roll and hip hop, developing a particular interest in creating beats and instrumentals for his fellow musicians to sing over. Guesmi was befriended by Kimball Gallagher, an American classical pianist who became fascinated by his works and invited him to take part in a music camp (in New York. As a result of this invitation, Guesmi performed several concerts across the USA and in Tunisia. As a composer, Guesmi has also had his own compositions performed around the world by various internationally recognised musicians (Kimball Gallagher, Alex Rowney, Allie Deaver, Nidhal Jebali, Patrick McGuire ..) and has been commissioned to write film scores by many directors. He has recently won the award for the Best Soundtrack Prize in the 48 Hour Film Project 2014. As an electronic music producer, he continues to work with various leading Tunisian and international artists. Souhayl is known to be a true artist citizen in Tunisia, frequently giving workshops and helping younger artists in rural areas.

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