Ali Shkaki is a Kurdish musician celebrated for his captivating voice and extraordinary mastery of the tanbur. Originally from Afrin, Syria, he has earned a reputation as one of Australia’s finest Kurdish musicians. Ali often describes the tanbur as half of his body, reflecting a lifelong bond with this traditional instrument that shapes his identity and sound. His music tells stories of love, landscape, and the lived experiences of the Kurdish people. Whether performing traditional songs or his own compositions, Ali brings emotional depth and cultural resonance to every stage. Ali began performing at age eleven and became a respected figure in Syria’s vibrant music scene. His career was interrupted in 2014 when the Syrian conflict forced him to flee. After three years in Iraqi Kurdistan, he resettled in Australia, where he now lives with his family. Since arriving in Australia, Ali has continued to share his musical heritage through concerts, festivals, and collaborations with renowned artists including his band, Greg Sheehan, Laura Targett, and Emiliano Beltzer. His performances blend Kurdish tradition with contemporary influences, offering audiences a rare combination of musical mastery and heartfelt storytelling. Through his work, Ali preserves the sounds of his homeland while sharing a powerful story of resilience, hope, and the universal language of music.