Artist Information Biography 2 Conservatory trained musicians from opposing cultures, collaborating on music to lift the spirit. Don Baragiano is the creative musician, having composed 90% of the repertoire.  Ashraf Hakim is the incredibly skilled instrumentalist adding stunning improvisational solos to Don's unique music. See our video on youtube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K30IxLcwxU4&feature=related  Nominated for a 2009 NAMMY AWARD  Don's original music "Love is a Miracle" has been nominated for a 2009 NAMMY AWARD 'Native Heart' Category. "Ancient Sounds" has recorded their own version...hear it now and vote ! http://www.nativeamericanmusicawards.com/votenow.cfm Instrumentation Don Baragiano – studied music theory & guitar at both the Cincinnati College Conservatory of Music & NKU.  Don lived in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia for 2 years studying Middle Eastern music and culture.  He toured 5 years with the New Europa Troubadours playing many US World Music Festivals, and studied World Rhythms at Cornell University in Ithaca, NY. Ashraf Hakim – Egypt’s World-Renowned Cellist was 1st Chair Cellist for the Cairo Opera House in Cairo, Egypt for 18 years. Scott Small – performed in jazz bands at; Western Washington University, UW, Stanford University, and BCC… Private lessons at the Professional Percussion Studies Institute in CA… Master classes; David Garibaldi, Steve Gadd, Steve Smith, Kenny Aronoff, Donny Osborne, etc. For larger venues we add: bass guitar, world percussionist, drum kit, vocalist and even a belly dancer to create a stronger, driving sound. Discography Hejira recorded a LIVE Webcast from Sedona, AZ on 11/10/07. Watch it online @ www.musiciansnet.org/hejira Our original song “Hejira” has been accepted by; www.songswithvision.com Hear our original song "Moroccan Roll" on Internet Radio;  www.OutboundMusic.com Links http://kuow.org/program.php?id=17979 Don discusses his music on NPR Affiliate KUOW: Hejira @ Evergreen State Fair 8/09 Our 6/8 tune