EPK | Faris Ishaq

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Faris Ishaq | JASAD Solo

“Jasad”—Arabic for Body—draws from the breath-centered essence of the Nay, one of the oldest flutes still in use, with deep Palestinian and Middle Eastern roots (ca. 5000 B.C.). Made of reed cane, without a mouthpiece or mechanics, the Nay responds solely to the player’s breath and intention, becoming an extension of the human body and a mirror to its soul. Reflecting on an increasingly digitized world, Faris extends the instrument–body connection to create a next-generation, multi-layered acoustic solo.

In a distinctive setup, he simultaneously performs the Nay alongside a leg-mounted frame drum and foot percussion. With exceptional dexterity and expressive nuance, he weaves original Tashbib melodies—a percussive, improvisational Nay style—with the rhythmic footwork of Dabke dance. Having danced Dabke professionally, he translates its patterns onto the leg-mounted frame drum, shaping Jasad into an embodied expression of Palestinian breath and culture.

Through a rich palette of extended Nay techniques—percussive sounds, multiphonics, and unique Nay effects—he produces acoustic illusions evoking the feel of electronic or looped textures, while remaining fully acoustic. In his original compositions and arrangements, Faris draws on his global jazz background to blend Tashbib with Jazz, merging these deeply rooted improvisational languages into a distinctive musical fusion.

At its heart, this project rekindles the quiet dialogue between breath, body, and the living landscape around us. By weaving cultural memory with contemporary expression, Jasad invites audiences to experience the rich sound of the Nay in an immersive solo concert.

Artist Biography

Palestinian Nay master, percussionist, and composer Faris Ishaq charts unexplored territories with the Nay. Rooted in his Palestinian heritage, Faris celebrates its cultural legacy in today’s modern musical landscape.

Born in Bethlehem and based in London, Faris established an international career, performing at major stages including Kings Place (London), the EFG London Jazz Festival, and the Monterey Jazz Festival. He has collaborated with multi-Grammy Award-winning artist John Patitucci on their single Supplication, and is a recording artist on the BAFTA-nominated soundtrack Assassin’s Creed: Mirage.

Mostly self-taught, Faris quickly gained recognition for his inventive, cross-cultural artistry.
In 2018, he earned a full scholarship to study Global Jazz Performance at Berklee College of Music, where he received the Best Student Award for his innovative work blending Arabic music with jazz. In 2021, he was granted the Global Talent (Exceptional Leader) Visa, endorsed by Arts Council England.

Renowned for revitalizing the traditional Palestinian style of playing “Tashbib” while pioneering a contemporary voice for the Nay in jazz, Faris has released the albums Tripolarity (2019), Nature Addresses You (2021), and Kham (2023), along with singles such as Evoke and A Wildscape, a concerto for Nay and orchestra, which premiered at Southwark Cathedral in London.

Press Reviews

“A Walking Musical Genius" - Max Reinhard, former BBC Radio 3

"When the Nay Flute moves towards the authentic self, The soul gradually moves towards the unknown. There is such brilliance in this esteemed work" - Le Trio Joubran, Samir Joubran

“Fantastic job. You bring a whole different way of improvising as a result of the immense presence of the ancient nay. This project demonstrates the incredible musical era of exchange we are presently living through which anything can happen.... No more rules!! And John Coltrane front and center...John would’ve loved it.” - Dave Liebman, legendary jazz saxophonist