Ali Paris, an internationally acclaimed musician, is celebrated for his exceptional mastery and innovative artistry on the qanun, a traditional instrument dating back to the 14th century. Blending the rich heritage of Middle Eastern music with elements of jazz and Western classical styles, Ali has captivated audiences around the world. He has been praised as an “unrivaled, unique artist” by Quincy Jones and described as “one of the most eclectic and diverse artists” by Paul Simon, a regular attendee at Ali’s performances at Lincoln Center in New York.

Born in Morocco, Ali began his musical education at the age of five. By the age of nine, he was discovered by Simon Shaheen, a master of classical Arabic music. Recognizing Ali’s extraordinary talent, Shaheen mentored him as a protégé. By the age of eleven, Ali was headlining his first European tour and performing in prestigious concert halls.

Since then, Ali has received numerous international accolades, including the prestigious Marcel Khalife Best Artist of the Year award, which he won for four consecutive years in a Middle East-wide competition where musicians showcase their exceptional skills. His career continued to flourish as he earned a degree from Boston’s renowned Berklee College of Music and collaborated with world-renowned artists such as the late Paco De Lucia, Buika, Alicia Keys, Bobby McFerrin, and Jack DeJohnette.

Ali has performed at some of the world’s most esteemed venues, including the White House, the Kennedy Center, the Newport and Montreux Jazz Festivals, and the Royal Palace in Jordan, where he gave a solo performance for Queen Rania. He has also been a soloist with the Boston Symphony Orchestra and the Michigan Philharmonic, and he was featured in the Grammy-winning Spanish documentary Entre2aguas as well as the Hollywood film Noah.

Distinguished by his seamless integration of Eastern and Western musical traditions, Ali’s performances create a powerful dialogue between cultures and genres. In addition to his musical achievements, he is dedicated to humanitarian causes, collaborating with artists to support initiatives such as Doctors Without Borders, Save a Child’s Heart, and Keep A Child Alive. His work with pop star Alejandro Sanz has also contributed to funding vital humanitarian projects in Africa and the Middle East.