Rumi
Coming Soon: Verse & Cello
with Coleman Barks and Eugene Friesen
Coleman Barks’ versions of poetry by thirteenth century Sufi mystic, Jelalladin Rumi, have made Rumi the best-selling poet in the English-speaking world. These divine – and sometimes raucous and sometimes funny – verses give us a glimpse of the colors, values, and fragrances of the Islamic world. Coleman has also presented Rumi in live concerts and has always loved reading with the accompaniment of music and dance.
Teaser:
The Guest House
This rendition of one of Rumi’s most beloved poems—from an album currently in production—is a collaboration between poet/translator Coleman Barks, vocalist Zena Carlota performing a Ugandan folk song, myself on cellos, and, of course, Rumi, the 13th-century poet, Islamic scholar, and Sufi mystic.
Listen Here:
Teaser:
Worms Waking
Eugene Friesen first performed with Coleman Barks in the early 90’s, improvising on cello supporting and highlighting Rumi’s delicious imagery with a range of styles and textures. The two have released live albums and are now completing their first studio album scheduled for release in January of 2024.
Click below to listen to short piece called “Worms Waking” which could also be titled “This is How a Human Being Can Change.”