Ariel Nahum is a versatile musician and multi-instrumentalist whose career spans a rich tapestry of global musical traditions, blending authentic Middle Eastern roots with West African, Balkan, and Jazz influences. Performing extensively both in Israel and internationally, Ariel has established himself as a dynamic force in the world music scene.

Born on 1980, Ariel grew up in the Yemenite neighborhood “Kisufim” in the city of Kfar-Saba. He is a student of various musical traditions: studied tabla with Indian master Sanji Kumhar Sharma, African drumming and flute with different masters in Gambia and Senegal and Yemenite singing with various masters and experts of Yemenite culture. ​

 

His artistic journey is defined by his passion for founding diverse musical ensembles, each exploring a unique cultural soundscape:
 

​Ensemble Yaman: Founded in 2009 by Ariel Nahum and Igal Mizrahi (Gulaza), this project is dedicated to traditional Yemeni music, merging ethnic roots with contemporary global and jazz arrangements, captivating audiences at renowned festivals worldwide.
 

​Fula Express: An energetic ensemble inspired by West African musical traditions, performing at major festivals across Israel and abroad.
 

​Ork Karnobat: An authentic Bulgarian music group that brings vibrant Balkan rhythms to Israeli festival stages.
 

​Ana Yamani: His current flagship project, which beautifully fuses traditional Yemeni music with the soulful tones of the oud and vocal performances. Currently touring in Israel, Ana Yamani is set to embark on an upcoming US tour.
 

​Ariel’s sound is grounded in deep formal study and traditional mastery. He studied Jazz at the Mizmor School of Music and explored the art of Makam at the Center for Middle Eastern Music in Jerusalem. Today, he continues his academic pursuits at the University of Haifa while performing as a musician in the prestigious Arab-Jewish Orchestra, under the baton of acclaimed conductor Professor Taiseer Elias.
 

​Throughout his career, Ariel has collaborated with prominent artists both locally and internationally, including West African legend Mansour Seck, Carlou D, Raphael  Roginski (PL), Amos Hoffman, Kama Kamila, Ehud Banai, Aliou Cisse, Karolina, and Lala Tamar.

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