UCSB Middle East Ensemble Tickets

The UCSB Middle East Ensemble (UCSB MEE) is the official ethnomusicology performance ensemble at the University of California, Santa Barbara. Founded in 1989 by Dr. Scott Marcus, the ensemble brings together traditional and contemporary sounds from across the Middle East and surrounding regions. Their performances feature an array of instruments—ud, saz, nay, qanun, santur, rabab, zurna, mizmar, darbukkah, and riqq—through a rich repertoire that includes Arab, Turkish, Persian, Armenian, Greek, Sephardic/Oriental Jewish, Kurdish, and Assyrian traditions.

As a bridge between academic study and living performance, UCSB MEE has delivered archival recordings and international appearances that highlight its role in preserving and presenting global folk and art music. Their work has taken them to a variety of venues and stages, from intimate university settings to international stages, always with the aim of engaging audiences with authentic sound and scholarly context.

Here you’ll find bios, discography highlights, and the latest information on upcoming tours and performances. We’ve got you covered for reliable, straightforward ticket access—like having a friend in the business who can secure seats for you.

Biographical note: The ensemble was established in 1989 under the direction of Dr. Scott Marcus, assembling musicians and scholars to explore and present diverse Middle Eastern and neighboring musical traditions. Their repertoire emphasizes authentic performance practice, allowing audiences to experience music rooted in historical and cultural contexts. The UCSB MEE provides educational programs, performances, and collaborations that deepen understanding of regional musical heritage.

Discography highlights from the 1990s include three archival CDs: UCSB Middle East Ensemble In Concert (1994), UCSB Middle East Ensemble (1995), and UCSB Middle East Ensemble (1996)—the latter released under the Soundscape Series. These recordings capture the ensemble’s early explorations into traditional repertoire and ensemble arrangements.

Notable achievements include international appearances such as representing the U.S. at Melodies of the East in Samarkand, Uzbekistan (1999), a performance tour in Egypt with Cairo Opera House engagements (2010), and a program at the Nevada Museum of Art (2011). UCSB MEE regularly presents highly attended, sold-out performances at venues like the Lotte Lehmann Concert Hall, showcasing the ensemble’s lively, authentic sound and scholarly presentation.