Wishamalii (FI/JO)
This remarkable trio brings together three adventurous musicians from very different musical and cultural backgrounds. Praised for its unique sound world, rich sonic palette, and warm stage presence, the ensemble creates music that feels both deeply rooted and strikingly new.
At the centre of the group is the innovative Maqiano™ microtuning system, developed by pianist Kari Ikonen. This revolutionary invention allows the acoustic piano to perform Arabic maqam modes and other micro-intervals with remarkable precision, opening new possibilities for dialogue between musical traditions.
The name Wishamalii refers to a Nordic interpretation of the Arab-Andalusian muwashah song tradition. While inspired by these historical roots, the ensemble’s repertoire is largely original music written specifically for the trio.
The concert is arranged in collaboration with Interkult Culture Hub
On program
30.10.2026
Venue
AMOS-stage
Tickets
5 €
Performances and tickets
Performers
NEMAT BATTAH – voice, oud
Palestinian-Jordanian singer, oudist, and composer Nemat Battah is an active and
highly respected artist in the global music scene in Finland and Sweden. She also works
as a lecturer at the Global Music Department of the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki
KARI IKONEN – piano with Maqiano™ microtuning system, Moog synthesizer
Award-winning Finnish composer and pianist Kari Ikonen is one of the most original
voices in contemporary music. Continuously exploring new musical paths inspired by
cultures from around the world, he performs internationally both as a solo pianist and
with numerous ensembles
ABDISSA ASSEFA – percussion
Ethiopian-born Abdissa Assefa is one of Finland’s most prominent percussionists,
known for his powerful rhythmic voice and his ability to move naturally across genres
and musical traditions.
