Maqam Australis at Beit Midrash Oz

Join Maqam Australis for an unforgettable evening of rare and captivating Mizrachi Jewish music at Beit Midrash Oz!

Formed by Yehonotan Huppert, Joshua Moshe, and Sebi Starr, Maqam Australis is an ensemble dedicated to exploring the rich tapestry of traditional Jewish music from Mizrachi communities across Syria, Iraq, Iran, Turkey, Lebanon, Andalusia, Greece, and historic Israel. Their music breathes life into ancient piyyutim (prayer songs), folk melodies, and zemirot rooted in the Maqam modal system—a collection of microtonal scales that gives this music its haunting, evocative beauty.

With each member bringing a unique heritage and expertise, Maqam Australis weaves a contemporary interpretation of these treasured songs. Yehonotan, a self-taught instrumentalist on oud, qanun, and ney, shares his deep connection to his Mizrachi roots; Joshua, an award-winning saxophonist and clarinetist, adds his flair from both jazz and Jewish music traditions; and Sebi, a talented percussionist rising in Melbourne’s jazz and Jewis…