Born in Paris and raised in Lebanon, Layale Chaker is a French-Lebanese violinist and composer whose music seamlessly blends classical contemporary music, jazz, Arabic maqam, and improvisation.
Chaker began her musical education at the National Higher Conservatory of Beirut and furthered her studies at the Conservatoire de Paris and the Royal Academy of Music in London. She is currently pursuing a doctoral degree at the École des Hautes Études in Paris.
Her debut album, Inner Rhyme (2019), recorded with her chamber jazz ensemble Sarafand, received critical acclaim, including a “Top of The World” designation from Songlines magazine and a #2 spot on NPR’s list of best releases.
Sarafand features:
Layale Chaker – Violin, Voice
Jake Charkey – Cello
Phillip Golub – Piano, Microtonal Keyboard
Sam Minaie – Bass
John Hadfield – Percussion
Their second album, Radio Afloat (2024), is a suite inspired by Lebanese poet Ounsi el-Hage’s “The Trace of Blue Passion,” exploring themes of human and environmental interconnectedness.
Chaker’s compositions have been performed by ensembles such as the New York Philharmonic and the West-Eastern Divan Orchestra. Her chamber opera, Ruinous Gods, premiered at the 2024 Spoleto Festival.