Melissa Murphey has studied and performed Middle Eastern music since 2001. In April of 2006, Melissa formed the Classic Bellyrock Band, Ishtar. Melissa also co-founded Jalsah, a community participation music event held nationwide. In addition to teaching Middle Eastern Ensemble workshops, her sheet music can be downloaded at Dorku.com.

Interview with Melissa Murphey from the Pittsburgh Tribune.

Sheet Music/MP3 of Melissa's featured on "Music of Turkey: Cultural Crossroads" - Carnegie Hall Instructional sheet music/CD.


Ishtar - Pittsburgh's only classic Bellyrock band
Ishtar performs authentic Middle Eastern folk and rock songs with their own Ishtar twist, called "BellyRock". Each song contains a completely improvisational solo in the middle, different every time.
www.ishtar-music.com
Jalsah - Middle Eastern music and bellydance jam
Jalsah is a community event designed to bring together dancers and musicians inspired by Middle Eastern music. Experienced or inexperienced: all are welcome to participate!
www.jalsah.org
Dorku - Middle Eastern sheet music and practice mp3s
Dorku is a centralized location for learning how to play Middle Eastern music. Melissa has uploaded sheet music and practice mp3s so you too can play these classic bellydance tunes.
www.dorku.com

The Turkish Band Camp All-Stars
Traditional Middle Eastern folk music. TBCAS performs in New York, Connecticut, Pennsylvania and DC.
www.turkishbandcampallstars.com


Upcoming Events
06.07.2008 - Jalsah Pittsburgh more info
06.14.2008 - Jalsah Long Island more info
06.20.2008 - 06.22.2008 - TribalRevolution more info
07.06.2008 - Towson Maryland - more info
07.31.2008 - 08.07.2008 - Pennsic - more info

Past Events
05.17.2008 - Jalsah Rhode Island