John Bilezikjian
World renowned Oudist & Composer
Middle Eastern Music
John may be the most prominent oudist of his generation, if not in the nation. Teacher, composer, artist and musician. For many a musician, John has been instrumental in their careers. Although Mr. Bilezikjian's main focus is the oud, he is a multi-instrumentalist. Over the past 30 years, he has also written the music for several television specials and a number of Hollywood movies.
If you would like more information about booking John for your special occasion email or call (949) 581-5664.
John has been performing for over 40 years. He is an entertainer, musician, singer, composer and teacher. B.A in Violin, Oud, and Composition-Cal. State Univ. Northridge.
What others say about John:
Orange County Register: "He's slightly amazing", "He speaks and performs in 11 languages-Turkish, Armenian, Russian, Spanish, Arabic, Persian, French, German, Greek and both Laurence Oliver English and Willie Nelson English"
The Observer: From out of the dark light of the cabaret and into the spotlight of the concert stage the Oud is very much alive and John Bilezikjian's playing proved that there certainly can be a "Heifetz on the Oud".
Los Angeles Times: John's music needs no translation in the world of American or Middle Eastern audiences. He is a composer, teacher, entertainer, actor and soloist for the Los Angeles Philharmonic. His degrees are on the Oud, Violin and composition. In the opinion of many qualified critics from the Los Angeles Times, "He is internationally acclaimed and considered a music dazzler" by Herbert J. Vida.
Frets Magazine: "his command of the rhythm, dynamics, and harmonic color is astounding"...
Billboard... "a sworn statement to Bilezikjian's proficiency on the difficult 11 stringed instrument played with a quill".
Stereo Review:.."is able to push the Oud for beyond it's ancient capabilities, coaxing chords, harmonies, and contrapuntal effects that lend surprising color to his performance".
General Information
John's incorporation of many diverse elements, both folk and classical, Near Eastern and Western, sets him apart as an exceptionally versatile, multifaceted musician who represents, in effect, a microcosm of the ethnic communal makeup of the City of Los Angeles. His music embraces the traditions of Armenia, Turkey, the Arab World, Greece, Russia, Israel, Eastern Europe, Spain, Asia and Latin America.
He has written and recorded rock 'n roll, music for belly dancing, television and motion picture soundtracks, and has produced a myriad of original compositions. He plays over fifty instruments, although his focus has been and remains the oud.
You can hear John on Placidio Domingo's release "De mi Alma Latina", Ofra Haza's release "Kirya", Robert Palmer's "Ridin High", Cantor Isaac Behar's "Sephardic Sabbath Chants" and Leonard Cohen's CD "Cohen Live".
How to Contact John
John can be reached via email at DantzRec@aol.com, via US Mail at P.O. BOX 2434 Laguna Hills, CA 92654-2434 or via telephone at (949) 581-5664. Bookings are available, but dates fill quickly. |
