Members of the University of Haifa’s Arab-Jewish Orchestra with Conductor and Musical Director
Prof. Taiseer Elias (far right)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Haifa native Elias Julianos is not a typical college student.
With two undergraduate degrees in law and music already
under his belt, he is currently pursuing a master’s degree
in music at the University of Haifa’s School of the Arts.
He is also a fast-rising Arab singer, with more than a
dozen hit singles to his name.

 

 

 

 

Elias Julianos performing with the University of Haifa’s Arab-Jewish
Orchestra at the ruins of an ancient church at Shivta National Park,
a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

 

What factors have influenced your career path?

E.J. - I began singing professionally at a very early age. At home, we listened to Lebanese music, and I grew to love its distinct mix of Western and Eastern melodies and romantic lyrics. When I was 15, I formed a band. We performed mostly at weddings and special events. My parents urged me to choose a practical profession, so I went to study law. Over the years, my passion for singing and music just grew stronger and led me to follow my heart.

Why is music so special for you?

E.J. - In my experience, music has the power to strike chords of friendship and to build bridges between cultures. I love performing, and feel a great sense of satisfaction when someone from another culture compliments my music. The broad-based music program at the University of Haifa lets me explore the influence of music on societies and cultures.

 

What attracted you to the Arab-Jewish Orchestra?

E.J. - The Arab-Jewish Orchestra inspires cooperation, openness and harmony, and its music appeals to a wide audience. The Orchestra is composed of Muslim, Jewish, Christian and Druze musicians who play instruments representing both East and West, and sing in Arabic, Hebrew, and English. Shortly after joining the orchestra, Prof. Yuval Shaked, Head of the School of the Arts, and the Orchestra’s conductor and musical director Prof. Taiseer Elias, asked me to serve as the ensemble’s vocal coach. I have especially enjoyed working with the singers on body language, stage presence, and intonation. The Orchestra has given concerts across Israel and worldwide, performing at venues in Europe and Latin America.

 

Plans for the future?

E.J. - To complete my master’s degree in music, and continue to perform and inspire audiences on principles of tolerance, understanding, and friendship.

 

- Bridging Cultures through the Arts -

 

The School of the Arts at the University of Haifa is breaking ground with its vision of integrating artistic disciplines and culture.
The School’s innovative Department of Music has recently added a new project, ‘The Caravan Project,’ that brings
international exchange students to Haifa to participate in master classes and workshops on Arab music.

For more information about supporting activities of the Department of Music, please
contact the This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..