Embassy News and Events

U.S. Embassy Brings Jazz to Oman

The Sound Merchants in performance at Al Buraimi

Jazz – the music that is America's quintessential art form – drew crowds March 2 to 8 at performances by Alvin Atkinson and the Sound Merchants in Muscat, Sohar, and Al Buraimi. The New York-based quartet visited Oman through the U.S. Department of State's special program The Rhythm Road - American Music Abroad, which reaches out to audiences around the world to present high-quality American performers.

In addition to their public performances, while visiting the Sultanate the Sound Merchants presented workshops and masterclasses at schools and with the jazz ensemble of the Royal Air Force of Oman, who joined a special appearance with the group at their Muscat concert.

The Sound Merchants were recruited for their American Music Abroad tour by the prestigious Jazz at Lincoln Center program. The group consists of Alvin Atkinson on drums; Paul Beaudry on bass; Sean Higgins on piano; and Stacy Dillard on saxophone. All four are experienced musicians and teachers who have worked with some of the biggest names in jazz and blues. Reviewing the group’s Muscat concert, the Oman Tribune wrote that “a decidedly explosive performance by Alvin Atkinson and the Sound Merchants enthralled the audience.”