For as long as humans have been making music, most people (except for some sourpusses who label certain music as pernicious) have attributed a healing effect to it. Inducing a trance could drive away spirits and cleanse the body. But even the simple application of calming the listening audience can be seen as contributing positively to the disposition of the one who exposes himself to the music.
The healing aspect of music has always fascinated flutist Naïssam Jalal, but since spending time in the hospital herself, she has been able to use her own experiences to compose her Healing Rituals. The Frenchwoman, of Syrian background, and her group play a collection of pieces as intense as they are soothing. Jalal's flute playing - which she often seamlessly blends into her singing voice - sounds contemplative and always seems to come from very deep. Her band members (on cello, double bass and drums) follow and support her in this. The "rituals" are named after natural phenomena, which Jalal brings out in an incantatory way. The healing effect will vary from listener to listener, but ear-pleasing it certainly is. (JV)more
