Biography

Education

• Doctor of Musical Arts in Composition, University of Toronto, 2015
• B.Sc. in Computer Science, University of Haifa
• Graduate, Rubin Conservatory of Music in Haifa

Areas of Expertise

• Piano Performance
• Contemporary Classical Composition
• Middle Eastern Music Theory
• Cross-Cultural Musical Integration

Sharbel Dalal

Born in 1982 in the historic port city of Haifa along the Mediterranean Sea, Sharbel Dalal embarked on his musical journey at the tender age of 5, beginning with foundational rhythmic training. By age 8, his path deepened when he commenced piano studies under the guidance of Mr. Theodor Broder at the prestigious Rubin Conservatory of Music in Haifa. Following Mr. Broder’s retirement, Sharbel continued his musical development with Ms. Rieta Lesuchen, another distinguished instructor at the conservatory who became like a grandmother to him, offering not only musical guidance but also nurturing his artistic spirit with warmth and wisdom.

After completing his conservatory education, Sharbel pursued a B.Sc. in Computer Science at the University of Haifa. During these studies, he experienced a profound realization—music, not technology, was his true calling. This epiphany led him to leave his homeland and relocate to Toronto, where he earned his Doctor of Composition degree from the University of Toronto in 2015.

Sharbel’s compositions uniquely bridge Western classical techniques with the rich musical traditions of his Middle Eastern heritage. His DMA thesis explored the integration of Middle Eastern scales and compositional structures into contemporary classical frameworks, reflecting his deep connection to his cultural roots. This distinctive fusion has become a hallmark of his compositional voice.

Critics have characterized Sharbel’s compositions as cinematic and narrative-driven, while his piano performances are celebrated for their delicate touch and profound emotional resonance.

Musical Philosophy

Sharbel’s approach to composition reflects his belief in music as a universal language capable of bridging cultural divides. By weaving together elements from different musical traditions, he creates works that honor both his heritage and his classical training while pushing boundaries and exploring new sonic territories.

Notable Achievements

Throughout his career, Sharbel has received recognition for his innovative approach to composition and his technical prowess as a pianist. His works have been performed by leading ensembles and soloists across North America and Europe, bringing his unique musical vision to diverse audiences.