Rafik Samman completed a Master’s degree in musicology (Medieval music) at the Université de Montréal. In France, he studied choir directing with José Aquino and Iranian percussion with Jean Pierlot, Professor of percussion at the Conservatoire de Paris.

In New York he studied ethnic percussion with Glen Velez. Finally, in Montréal, he did studies in classical guitar with John Mills and Eli Kassner, and in singing with Lucette Tremblay. He has worked with ensembles such as Marcabru, La Nef, El Extasis, Les Boréades, Les Idées heureuses, Les Voix humaines, and Caprice. He has also performed in Karen Young’s Le Cantique des Cantiques as a percussionist, singer, and lute player.

Mr. Samman has recorded abouth 30 CDs with various Renaissance, Medieval, Baroque, and pop music ensembles.

He has taught percussion, Gregorian chant, as well as Medieval and Renaissance music for several years in various music camps.

As a percussionist and singer, he has participated in over 3500 shows worldwide with Le Cirque du Soleil.