This week, Kathryn talks to oudist and quantum computing student Manar Naeem about her earliest experiences in music, favourite career moments and the importance of music education. Listen now or watch on YouTube or Facebook!

Manar Naeem is a self-taught, Syrian-born oudist. She graduated with a physics degree with math and computer science minors from Wilfrid Laurier University, and is now pursuing her Master's degree in Quantum Computing at the University of Waterloo.  Manar performs with the Canadian Arabic Orchestra, and works as an oud  teacher for children and adults at the Canadian Arabic Conservatory of  Music. In 2020, she was the first oudist to be featured in CBC's 30 Hot  Canadian Classical Musicians Under 30 list. Manar has performed across  Canada and experienced first-hand how music is a global language of love  that can bring different cultures and communities together.