Yunis Premieres ‘The Partridge Bird’ From ‘Opera for 1000 Crows’

Egyptian musician and Kafr El Dawar Records co-founder YUNIS is set to premiere his latest project, ‘Opera for 1000 Crows (الحجلة)’, at the French Institute in Cairo on February 13th. After extensive touring in Europe, YUNIS brings this new work to Egypt for the first time, with another performance scheduled for April at the French Institute in Alexandria.

This interactive performance blends live electronics, cello, voice and toys, offering a unique exploration of the paradox between grief and celebration. Inspired by a traditional dance ritual from Upper Egypt and Delta villages, ‘Opera for 1000 Crows’ examines the limping movement performed by women around graves during burials - a motion reminiscent of crows, creatures deeply tied to burial myths in Islamic traditions. This same movement also appears in a children’s street game, once considered an omen by elders.

YUNIS will experiment with vocal performances, incorporating poetry recitations into the immersive experience. The Egyptian synth virtuoso crafts a funeral-like soundscape, reflecting on the intersection of life and death. Through music, movement and audience engagement, the performance creates a meditative space for reflection, healing and solidarity.

Additionally, SceneNoise is exclusively premiering a track from the music piece, ‘The Partridge Bird’, on our channels, offering audiences an early glimpse into the sonic world of YUNIS’ latest project.