In a time when differences make headlines, two Minnesotan musicians are using Jazz to bring the Jewish and Muslim communities together. After nearly three years, Jesse Simon (a professional jazz musician) and Omar Abdulkarim (a fuglehorn player) will be performing at the Minnesota JCC – Capp Center, St. Paul, on June 18 at 7 p.m.
The event is free and open to the public.
Although Simon is Jewish and Abdulkarim comes from a Muslim background, the two connected through their shared love of jazz.
“We’ve chosen to collaborate under the umbrella of peace and unity,” said Simon. “[The collaboration] has not only strengthened our friendship but our working relationship as well”.
Simon and Abdulkarim hoped that the Salam Shalom Jazz Project would have launched earlier this year; however, challenges delayed the performance. Simon explained that the ICE protest, combined with personal hardships, led to the event’s postponement.
Despite these challenges, the two musicians continued to meet regularly and grow their friendship. Simon said that their rehearsals became an opportunity to talk about music, life, and their cultural traditions.
For Simon, one of the most meaningful aspects of this project has been growing his relationship with Abdulkarim.
“I think we have both grown a lot,” said Simon. “We have gained a lot more respect for each other.”
The Salam Shalom Jazz Project was supported through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board. Simon also expressed his gratitude to JCC staff member Katie Klein for her support of this project.