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Austin at SXSW: 1001 Nights Orchestra
1001 Nights Orchestra have created a diverse repertoire of Middle Eastern music in Austin since the late 1990s. They return to the SXSW festival this year with an official showcase at 9 p.m. Thursday, March 18, at Copa. 1001 Nights founder Kamran Hooshmand advises out-of-towners to check out Austin’s natural beauty, and to come to the official showcase if they’re looking for opportunities to belly dance.
What can SXSW attendees expect at your showcase?
We do a lot of Middle Eastern tunes which are great for dancing or belly dancing. We have rousing solo improvisations and a variety of cool instruments to watch and listen to. People often leave the place shaking their hips!
What other acts are you excited to check out?
My list is large and includes Jazz, World, Electronica and Latin bands. Too many to name.
Are you planning to go to any panels?
Yes. There are a couple about social networking and music that I am interested in.
What are some Austin must-do or must-sees for out-of-towners?
Friends bar on 6th street: has great music and ambiance.
Town Lake if the weather is good: nice bike and hike trail.
Marakesh Mediterranean Restaurant on Congress and 9th: great food.
Barton Springs pool: natural pool at 67 degrees year-long, a must-go place weather permitting.
Cactus Cafe on UT campus: check out the historic venue before it’s gone, UT board is planning to close it permanently.
Where do you like to hear live music, when it’s not SXSW?
I love the outdoor patio of the Central Market Cafe both North and South locations, though the North one is much larger. Cactus is certainly among the best places to see acoustic music. I love Elephant Room for jazz, it just fits the music so well.
What’s your favorite ‘only in Austin’ thing to do?
Definitely Barton Springs pool. Walk around Town lake, Mount Bonnell and Littlefield Park.
Tracks courtesy of 1001 Nights Orchestra.
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