Ammar Melhem

Bridging Cultures Through the Sound of the Oud

Based in the Netherlands, Ammar Melhem is an oud player, composer, and performer whose music brings together the depth of Arabic maqam, the freedom of jazz improvisation, and the expressive spirit of flamenco.

For more than a decade, Ammar has been performing across the Netherlands and Europe, developing a distinctive musical voice that connects tradition with contemporary creativity. His performances are characterized by lyrical improvisation, rhythmic energy, and a deep respect for musical heritage while embracing new artistic encounters.

Ammar has appeared at leading festivals and venues including Bevrijdingsfestival, Zwolle Unlimited Festival, Musica Mundo – Rhythms of the World, Mundial Korvel Festival, Achterhoek Spektakel Festival, and Movies that Matter Festival, as well as renowned Dutch theaters such as Odeon Zwolle and MIMIK Deventer.

His artistic work has also been featured on Dutch national television through Vrije Geluiden (NPO) and Zin in Zappelin.

Whether performing solo or in collaboration with international ensembles, Ammar creates musical experiences that transcend borders and invite audiences into a dialogue between cultures, traditions, and contemporary expression.