Originations

Dynamically synthesizing classical compositional elements and improvisation, with Middle Eastern and other World music influences, pianist/composer Ryan Cohan’s Originations builds on his five critically acclaimed recordings from the last two decades.

Born from a trip to Jordan where he discovered his paternal family homeland, the experience catalyzed Cohan to seek out his Palestinian roots for the first time. His re-awakened Arab lineage together with his Jewish upbringing was transformative as he contemplated the rich beauty and profound cultural complexities from a musical perspective.

Scored for his long-standing Chicago sextet plus string quartet, Originations is a natural progression for him as a musical storyteller as such motifs were a central catalyst in his lauded earlier recordings.