Issam's Annual Live Music Intensive featuring Stefanya

Beginner Drumming

Discover the heartbeat of Middle Eastern music with master drummer Issam Houshan. This workshop introduces beginners to the core percussion instruments that shape the music’s pulse and energy: tabla, riqq, and duff.

Balady Technique: Earthy, Soulful, and Strong

Dive deep into the heart of Egyptian dance with this immersive Balady technique workshop, focused on grounding, expression, and cultural authenticity. Balady—meaning “of the country”—is a soulful and earthy dance style that emphasizes internal strength, subtle articulation, and emotional storytelling. In this 2-hour training, Stefanya will guide dancers through the key elements of Balady movement, from weighted hip work and layered isolations to the musical structures that shape this rich improvisational style. You'll explore how to dance with intention and connection, using your breath, posture, and presence to create a powerful impact—even with the most minimal of movements. This workshop includes: • Foundational Balady posture and weight placement • Hip work, shimmies, and internal isolations • Understanding Balady progressions and musical cues • Developing authentic expression and body language • Optional use of Balady-inspired choreography phrase