Sanctuary, Episode 3: “Songs of the Sap”

In this episode, host Rhiannon Giddens explores sanctuary through the lens of exile and migration. Silkroad cellist and composer Karen Ouzounian traces her family's journey from Anatolia through Lebanon to Canada, sharing how Armenian melodies connected the diaspora over generations of displacement, and inspired her own compositions. Then, we hear from Ukrainian band Kommuna Lux who tour to help provide a sense of hope for communities separated from their homeland by war, and music scholar Dr. Ailbhe Kenny examines how music helps asylum seekers reclaim their identities. Featured Guests Karen Ouzounian – Cellist, composer, and Silkroad Ensemble member Vladimir Gitin – Clarinettist and founding member of Kommuna Lux Taras Luka – Accordionist and bassist with Kommuna Lux Nicko Shevelov – Drummer with Kommuna Lux Dr. Ailbhe Kenny – Music education researcher and author of Music Refuge: Living Asylum through Music. The song 'Khuluma isintu' (Speak to the People) featured in this episode was composed by Dr Seán Doherty for The Song Seeking Project, led by Dr. Kenny. For more on Sanctuary: The Power of Resonance and Ritual, visit silkroad.org