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Toni S. Singleton
November 2, 2024
The Joy of Movement-now The Dance Complex and the Mural on the side of The Middle East Cafe reminds me of Shamou´s artistic contribution to Central square. His voice and drumming gave so much inspiration to the many dance classes he accompanied. This is where I was blessed to share space. Whenever he was there I knew we would have a good class. He was steady, consistent and overlayed beautiful vocals. Rest in Power, Shamou
Rest in Power!!
Chris brown
October 19, 2024
My friend with the soul that connected to the universe, I only hope your energy carries on within all of us
Tracie Reed
September 30, 2024
I lived across the street from Shamou on Cushman Street. A young resident of our building would serenade the neighborhood with his alto saxophone playing on warm nights on the front steps. Shamou would sometimes stop by and talk to him about what he was playing and offered blueberries from the yard.
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Zoey November
September 28, 2024
I am so saddened to hear this news. I remember dancing to his music at Bates YDF as a young teen, the magic in his music carried us like nothing else could. I love dancing to his music. I remember one particular day I started feeling sick in class, and somehow among a sea of 50+ dancers and sweltering heat, Shamou noticed me when no one else did. Although he was still playing, he checked in with me to see if I was all right, and found me again later to make sure I was still okay. How he noticed me in the crowded room and managed to find me again later will always be a mystery to me. The gentle kindness he extended that day is just one example of how generous he was and how much of a difference he made in the community. When he looked out for me that day, he made me realize that I was part of that community too, and I am forever so grateful for his kindness.
Kayla Guillot
September 26, 2024
Although I just met him this year as a freshmen, he brought a very kind energy into whatever room he was in. I´ve never had any sort of accompanist in the studio before and it was something to behold. His artistry and talents that he brought to me in the month I knew him were ones that I will cherish for the rest of my life.
Eddie Byrd
September 25, 2024
My Dearest condolences go out to Shamou Family. I am his neighbor that worked on Motorcycles. Very sadden by his passing! Every time he returned if it was from school or just taking a stroll on his bicycle we would great each other with a smile an encouraging words. Or maybe have a quick chat to catch up on life's projects. Very helpful an humble guy! May his legacy live. He definitely made a spot our family heart. Rest well my friend!
Nicole Heller
September 24, 2024
I have only had the pleasure of knowing Mr. Amoui for the last 4 years but I am deeply saddened by his passing. He as an amazing person and the world will be a little darker without him in it. May you rest in eternal peace Shamou.
Laura Velez
September 22, 2024
He gave me kindness and grace when the world was offering none. He reminded me the power and strength of art; the importance of it. I still feel like I´m going to see him, round the corner and there he´ll be with his bright smile and big bear hug. Your loss is felt deeply, but your legacy and voice shines brightly and loudly. You are missed.
Jill Axelrod
September 22, 2024
The highlight of my 20's was taking Prometheus company class and dancing to Shamou's drumming and singing. For many moons, and multiple decades, we were closest of friends. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to speak with him on September 8th. I will celebrate his life and keep him close to my heart!
Cristine Andriopoulos
September 21, 2024
I´ve just learned of the passing of someone so special.. Shamou was an incredible soul and talented and generous musician. I feel so lucky and blessed to have danced to his music in Walniut Hill School in Diane Arvanites´ s classes. I also remember being at Bates Dance festival at the same time and feeling so special I already knew him and his music... It feels like yesterday, though it was truly decades ago. But i can literally hear some of his songs, and that echo of his voice, when i close my eyes... He was a gentle giant and a humble talent. I know heaven is amplifying his music now...
Jolene McGowan
September 20, 2024
When Shamou arrived the party started. His energy, joy, charisma and charm lit up any gathering. For many years we hosted a pig roast with our neighbors. Sometimes 200 people would be there for this summer potluck and pig roast. We always made a stage for music. If Shamou showed up, the energy changed. He was generous, gracious and lovely to all who wanted to play music -- especially the the little kids. Thank you for sharing your positive spirit with so many people including my family who will always be grateful for your talent and open heart. Laura, I am thinking of you. Love Jolene (and Tom + Flannery).
dana fitchett
September 19, 2024
Wow, my heart is broken to hear of Shamou's passing! He was such a warm, loving, and enormous presence in my childhood life at Jeannette Neill Dance Studio in Boston. In a world where adults often made me feel unseen in different ways, Shamou was the opposite -- always making me feel seen, always so full of life and pure energy. I haven't seen him in many years, but never forgot the impact he had on me. Sending so much love and care to all those feeling the loss of his life in the physical realm. May his memory be a blessing and his energy continue to resonate <3
Ken L.
September 19, 2024
Loved working with Shamou! He always left you with a smile on your face and feeling that you could go on to the next day with love and joy in your heart.
Cynthia Zucchero
September 19, 2024
For about a year or more on Saturdays, Shamou played live accompaniment for my modern/jazz dance class at Casco Bay Movers. It was a 1 1/2 hour class and after our warm up our teacher Kate would say, "let´s go across the floor" we broke up into groups of 3 or 4 at a time and whenever Shamou was there playing his congas drum it was like Magic! His giftedness and passion for his art form helped lite a fire under me as I danced across the floor. I had more sparkle and passion for the art form I so love! Thank you, Shamou, for those Saturdays of percussive musical magic!
Beth Murray
September 18, 2024
Wishing peace and strength to wife Laura in Portland, dear brother in Stockholm and dear sister and nephew in Oslo. May all whose lives have been touched by the marvelous Shahram 'Shamou' Amoui find ways to not only admire but to emulate the goodness of this ever creative and generous citizen of a complicated world, who has left us too soon.
DJ Robinson
September 18, 2024
The biggest thing that I can always remember, me being thank you for taking towering over me at 6 foot seven every time he saw me, he would greet me with a smile and a big hug and embrace and always asked me how I was doing and how my dancing was fueling, my life I love his contagious spirit for life for music and dance
David Sharpe
September 17, 2024
David Sharpe
September 17, 2024
David Sharpe
September 17, 2024
I love yourbig, big heart and generous spirit. You made musical magic inspiring us to dance in community and bringing joyful delight toeveryone. I will miss the way you answered the phone when I called, hiking ing Linville Gorge, listening to favorite music, and simply hanging out in Asheville and Charlotte. You are a light worker bringing joy and inspiration to so many.May you rest in peace my friend.
Lisa Simon
September 16, 2024
Loved your music, your spirit, and your smile- RIP My Friend
Neige Christenson
September 16, 2024
Ah, Shamou! The soundscapes you created for us at dance camp were legendary! And I remember one particular summer when you also danced with us and spread your massive wings and sailed around the dance floor... so glorious! Sending love to your loved ones in this time of huge loss.
Kaitlyn Brantley
September 16, 2024
I´ll never forget walking into the dance room and seeing Shamou getting ready to play for us. He truly was a great musician and human being. He cared about everyone he knew. Every time I hear a drum I remember him teaching us. You will forever be missed Shamou.
Lisa Glover
September 16, 2024
I will always remember how Shamou addressed me when I had hit a particularly good table tennis shot. He would say "Darling..." and proceed to give me the look that said don´t do that! And then we would laugh. We had such fun playing table tennis, plus eating and talking at "Friendsgiving" the last two years. He introduced me to Fard pistachio brittle - good stuff. Shamou was a kind and gentle giant - I always felt good when he was around. I miss you and your incredible warmth. May you find peace, my friend.
Samira Shiridevich
September 16, 2024
Shamou was the first Iranian to welcome me when I arrived in Charlotte and at UNCC. I vividly remember how he took the time to show me around the Robinson Building and his office. That day, we went to Le Kebab for lunch, and as soon as we walked in, the entire staff greeted him with warm smiles-it was clear how much he meant to everyone there. Shamou had this incredible ability to fill any room with positivity and light. He was full of life, and his energy was contagious.
We shared a wonderful meal and talked about Iran, a place close to both our hearts. He spoke about how much he missed it, and we made a promise to visit together once I got my visa. We spent hours imagining all the food we would eat and the places we would see, completely unaware of how quickly time was passing.
Shamou was a remarkable friend, full of kindness, warmth, and optimism. His presence will be deeply missed, but his memory and spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
Maree ReMalia
September 16, 2024
Karen KLein
September 15, 2024
I was shocked and deeply saddened to hear that Shamou had died. For so many years I moved to his wonderful percussive beats, both with Prometheus classes and Olivier's Monday night jams. My spirit always had a smile when I was dancing to his music. The music and dance worlds have lost a valued member, but his music lives on, as do our memories. Condolences to Laura and to his brother, sister, and nephew as they grieve this terrible loss.
Karen Klein
Ric
September 15, 2024
I have so loved every dance and smile shared over these many years in Boston. So grateful to have had the experience of him and now the echoes though recordings and all of the people who resonate still. Love
Margaux
September 15, 2024
Oh no! Not you Shamou!
Please tell me it was a freak accident and nothing more.
We spent so much time together at the Boston Conservatory and dance pieces of mine.
For years when we happened to see each other we would spontaneously dance into the choreography no matter where we were on the street . LOL! We would just start the dance.
May you be dancing and playing and singing and feel as free as you can ever feel my brother.
You rocked our world playing for the improv jams.
Of course we all will leave when we're called back home to Spirit yet Shamou you now? Oh no!
You being part of the mural in Cambridge lit up all of our faces every time we would walk by.
When you moved away the presence of that mural and you drumming in it has always and still gives me a sweet spot in my heart to remember.
I'm sending you and yours so many waves of glistening golden and rose quartz swift healing and loving light as you fly home to the loving arms that await you my brother..
Rachel List
September 15, 2024
Shamou was a giant in many ways - as a musician, of course, but also as a generous and giving human being. He will be missed by all the many people he touched. Our hearts go out to Laura in this time of great loss and grief.
Annegret Baier
September 15, 2024
Annegret Baier
September 15, 2024
Chris Aiken
September 15, 2024
I had the good fortune to know Shamou in a number or contexts, from our many years at the Bates Dance Festival to Dance New England and dance classes he would play for in Boston. My most fond memories of Shamou were of us laughing, we had a very playful connection, his sweetness towards my two daughters as they were growing up at Bates, and the music he would play both for Moving in the Moment and during the musician's concert. My heart goes out to Laura and Shamou's family.
Maree ReMalia
September 15, 2024
Philip Sadler
September 15, 2024
I remember Shamou from his amazing music at DNE DanceCamp and his interactions with contact jams. He was an extraordinary musician and a kind and thoughtful soul. I wish I knew him better, especially his surveying interest. He will be thought of fondly by those whom his music has touched.
Manuel Wandji
September 15, 2024
I met Shamou at Bates Dance Festival in 2000 and 2003... After what we share the stage with VOICES (Philip Hamilton project) in 2011 in Edinburgh (UK). This a picture from that time with Brian May and his wife. Manuel Wandji
Jenn Klammer
September 15, 2024
Bates Dance Festival and National High School Dance Festival
Thank you for help shaping my dance career.
Annegret Baier
September 15, 2024
Annegret Baier
September 15, 2024
Annegret Baier
September 15, 2024
You are loved!
Madeline Yentsch
September 15, 2024
I am deeply saddened by the news of Shamou´s passing. I first met Shamou when he started working as a professor at UNCC. I was a student in his music and dance course, and was inspired by his deep knowledge and passion for music. Later on, I ended up doing assistant work for him, helping him navigate canvas and google docs. This lead to many days of hanging out in his office and talking about music and life. He was one of the teachers that really supported me through my schooling, as I struggled keeping up with my academics after the death of my father to cancer. He was always so patient and understanding and generous to everyone around him. After his music and dance course, I continued to see him regularly as he would play music for my modern dance courses. He would always greet everyone with a smile and made everyone feel like an old friend. One of my most favorite memories of Shamou is when he taught a few of my fellow students and I how to drum, and we performed on the arts quad before the solar eclipse. After I graduated, whenever I would see him in the community, he continued to make me feel welcome. As a dance educator myself now, I constantly use his music on Spotify to teach my modern dance classes to my students, and continue to share the knowledge that he shared with me. I am so grateful to have had a professor and friend like him in my life. He was truly a light in this world, and I will miss him dearly.
Chris Orth
September 15, 2024
I am shocked and saddened to realize that I will never see or hear Shamou again. He filled the room with a warm glow when he walked in. Best wishes for his family.
Jimena bermejo
September 15, 2024
Shamou was a person who radiated love and joy, with the biggest smile and a beautiful energy that touched everyone he met. His music brought so many of us together, both on and off the dance floor. I first met Shamu when I was a student at the Boston Conservatory, and I continued to dance to his music even after I graduated. Though I´m short and he was tall, every time we saw each other, I would leap into his arms, and he would lift me up so we could share a hug. Rest in peace, dear friend, and may your music and spirit live on forever.
Craig Gilbert
September 15, 2024
Oh dear world we have lost a good soul to share his artistry and live with us. I didn't send much time with Shamou but when I did he was always very present.
Annegret Baier
September 15, 2024
I am shocked band deeply saddened by the news of Shamou´s death! He was my "big brother" as he liked to put it and I remember many beautiful moments of making music together. Our shared passion was playing the drums, playing gigs and performing in the group Loopin´ among others. We first met in 1993 in Berkeley, California where he performed on the streets with his band. Our paths crossed again several years later at the Bates Dance Festival after I had moved to Maine from Germany. I will miss your big smile and our friendship forever! Your "little sister" Annegret.
Robin Williams
September 15, 2024
I will miss Shamou, I was so looking forward to hearing him play music at Music and Movement. He was so gifted he will be missed. In sympathy Robin Williams DNE community
Diala Al-Abed
September 14, 2024
A passionate and vibrant artist. Every time I spoke to Shamou he had such a personable way about him. Always making me laugh and feel at ease. It was always very clear that he was someone who lived and breathed music and I always admired that. I know you were both very close. Thinking of you and everyone that was fortunate to know Shamou
Diala Al-Abed
September 14, 2024
A passionate and vibrant artist. Every time I spoke to Shamou he had such a personable way about him. Always making me laugh and feel at ease. It was always very clear that he was someone who lived and breathed music and I always admired that. I know you were both very close. Thinking of everyone that was fortunate to know Shamou
Jerry Boswell
September 14, 2024
I was first introduced to Shamou in 1987 by Rich LeVan, who was the head of the music department at San Juan College in Farmington, New Mexico. We were both taking drum set lessons from Rich, but I also played congas. Soon Shamou and I were playing congas together and our mutual love for drums and percussion grew from there. Over the years Shamou would come to Silver City to visit me when he came to New Mexico. I could tell from his most recent visit in May 2024 that Shamou loved New Mexico and was thinking seriously of moving back here once he finished at UNC. I know for certain that Dennis Vargo, of Albuquerque, and I were family to him and he always spoke fondly of the culture here in New Mexico. I am saddened that Shamou was not able to find a pathway through the recent period of difficulty in his life, and I was truly hoping that we would be able to continue our amazing friendship.
Liana Hawes
September 14, 2024
Shamou always made me smile. And dance! His loss will be felt far and wide. Peace and solace to Laura and Shamou´s big family of dancers, musicians and all he touched with his extraordinary gifts.
Larry Keigwin
September 14, 2024
I always loved walking into the dance studio and never knowing which musician was going to play, when I saw Shamou's smile I knew it was going to be an inspiring class. You will be missed. Lots of love to Laura, family and friends.
Lea Rose Allbaugh
September 14, 2024
I´m heartbroken to hear of Shamou´s passing. I had the privilege of working with Shamou and dancing to his beautiful music during my time as a dance student at UNCC. He was a source of kindness and light for everyone around and he´ll be missed greatly. My condolences to Shamou´s family.
Carlos Lellis
September 14, 2024
Carlos Lellis
September 14, 2024
Carlos Lellis
September 14, 2024
Carlos Lellis
September 14, 2024
Closest I got to having a big brother. Can't tell you how much I'll miss you dearest, dearest friend. Carlos Lellis.
Deborah Thorpe
September 14, 2024
Oh my gosh. I am so sad to hear this. Shamou and I were friends through the regional hs dance festival. He used to stand on his knees so he could properly look at me face to face! He was a beautiful soul!
Randy Armstrong
September 14, 2024
We lost a great musician and wonderful man. Shamou would always light up the room with his joyful & generous spirit. Many memories playing music together. I first met Shamou when we were selected to be artist representatives for a cultural exchange to Xalapa & Veracruz Mexico for the New England Foundation for the Arts. A deep friendship grew and we later performed many concerts together. He played darbuka on the song, "Wherever You Are" for the Beyond Borders album. A huge talent loved by many. I will always carry his joyful spirit in my heart. Rest in Peace my friend. Sending much love and condolences to his wife, Laura.
Bill Evans
September 14, 2024
Shamou and I were both engaged by the National High School Dance Festival for many years in the 2000s. He played for my technique classes on many occasions, and I was entranced by his artistry, sensitivity, generosity and kindness. He gave me some CDs in 2007 (as I recall), and I fell in love with them and used them in my teaching for decades. His music lives in my cells. I am saddened by the news of his passing but happy to know that he will live on through his fascinating and exciting music. Bill Evans
Fernando Chonqui
September 14, 2024
Shamou was a beam of light everywhere he went. I remember the first time I met him. His energy and joy were so contagious it was hard not to have your day brightened because of him. I was new to Bates, yet he treated me like I belonged, like a dear old friend finally finding his way home.
His music mastery reflected the incredible human he was. He touched many lives, including mine. I feel devastated to know such a wonderful human has left us, yet I feel calm knowing that he is finally at peace. I do not doubt that many will dance today as we celebrate your beautiful life. You left us an incredible legacy of joy, laughter, music, and love. You will be deeply missed, dear friend. Rest in power.
Stan Strickland
September 14, 2024
I am in shock! Shamou and I shared many musical journeys together. I looked forward to many more. We were brothers in the spirit of sound.
Stan Strickland
Catherine Musinsky
September 14, 2024
Goodbye, my dear friend. We shared many laughing hugs. I miss you like a stab in the heart. You seemed immortal. . .
Marcello Ozain Rossi
September 14, 2024
I love you Shamou. We will play together again, love is all around you.
Marcello Ozain Rossi
September 14, 2024
Claudia
September 14, 2024
Claudia
September 14, 2024
Claudia
September 14, 2024
Claudia
September 14, 2024
Claudia
September 14, 2024
Claudia
September 14, 2024
My adorado amigo, colega, músico inspirador, cómplice de vida. Te quedas en cada una de mis células, en mi danza, en mi memoria, en mis músculos. Fuiste un amigo cariñoso, siempre presente, siempre luminoso. Agradezco cada carcajada contigo, cada danza compartida, tu maravillosa música en mi trabajo, tus abrazos de oso, tu mirada siempre amorosa y tu solidaridad inquebrantable. Tu paso por Mazatlan, Delfos y la EPDM fue fundamental y todos te recuerdan con un profundo amor. Gracias por tantas comidas juntos, tantas charlas largas sobre la vida, tanto arte compartido, tanto cariño. Vuela en paz y libre de cualquier dolor, ilumina el universo con tu presencia en forma de energía, acompáñame cuando sean tiempos confusos. Todos aquí celebramos tu vida, tu música, tu ser completo. Te amo amigo querido...
sue lauther
September 14, 2024
Shamou always made me feel seen and valued. His smiling eyes looking down from his great height, with a twinkle of playfulness or sincerity made a connection that felt so warm. His music inspired us all as we danced - most of us danced with more vigor and nuance because of his sound. I'm so sad to hear of his passing and will play his music to keep him close.
Nejla Yatkin
September 14, 2024
In memory of my dear friend, collaborator, and brother, Shamou.
I´ll never forget when I first heard about Shamou from his wife, Laura, at the National Performance Network conference in 2009. Laura told me, "My husband could be your twin." When I finally met him, I felt that connection immediately. We bonded over our shared love of world music, the arts, and our international upbringings. From that moment, our friendship blossomed, and a creative partnership was born.
Shamou composed the music for some of my most cherished works, including Oasis, The Other Witch, and Ouroboros. His music was more than just a soundtrack-it breathed life into my choreography, filling each moment with depth and emotion. His spirit lives on in these works, which will continue to tour in 2024/25, carrying his brilliance forward.
I am profoundly grateful for every moment we shared, for the laughter, the creativity, and the many times we pushed each other to new artistic heights. Our collaboration was so much more than work-it was a meeting of souls.
Shamou, you were more than a collaborator. You were my brother. Thank you for sharing your light with me and with the world. And thank you, Laura, for introducing me to this incredible soul who became such a meaningful part of my life.
Shine on, my brother. You will always be in my heart.
Tori Cartee
September 13, 2024
I was a student enrolled in the UNC-Charlotte Dance Department program when Shamou joined the faculty. When I think of Shamou, I think of the bright light I saw (and heard) at the front of the room for each of my classes. He was truly gifted, with a talent for, at a moment´s notice, effortlessly blend an array of vocals, piano, and drums in what I presumed to be improvisational scores. He brought something new to his students, it was exciting, and I believe he touched so many lives within and beyond our community of dancers.
A favorite memory of mine is taking vintage jazz class with Karen and Shamou, where he helped tackle our rowdy group of budding artists. Guiding us through the practice of scatting (I believe there was a time referencing a goat at some point) and finding musicality whilst tirelessly attempting to Shorty George and do the Charleston. He never failed to make us laugh, inspire us, and it was an honor to dance to his music.
Although what I believe is most important to share about Shamou, was how much he meant to the people in his life. I can attest to the true impact he made on his friends, colleagues, students, and undoubtably so many more people. My heart goes out to his family and friends, and I am so grateful to have experienced Shamou in this life. I believe he´s playing his sweet music amongst the stars now...keep playing for us down here, Shamou.
Jacques Pardo
September 13, 2024
I am in chock to learn of his passing. I had the honor and privilege to have Shamou work with Cosmos Factor in the early 90´s in Boston and share a spot with him on the mural at the Middle East along with Merida Castillo..He was a very dedicated talented musician and a deeply passionate and spiritual person!
I happened to find a video on YouTube of us playing at the inauguration of the mural painting! RIP Shamou
https://youtu.be/RbgDwSrANA8?si=ArsrFzVFeJGLueBx
Kiah Harrell
September 13, 2024
Something I will always remember is how positive and warm hearted Shamou was. He always made me feel accepted no matter my ethnicity, gender, or experience. He created a warm and welcoming environment and created a second home for me and a lot of other dancers as well. I will never forget how kind hearted Shamou was and he taught me what it really means to spread positivity and love everyone. Rest in Peace Shamou we miss you dearly.
CarlosAlexis Cruz
September 13, 2024
I miss you brother. Mi hermano persa. So many dreams, conversations, beers, coffee, tacos, Kashke Bademjan... love you forever and thank you for the laughs, the joys and the best conversations all around about anything and everything in this world. Your light never stopped shining, and now it glows out of each and everyone of us that were fortunate enough to have met you and had you in our lives. Love to all.
Abbi Gray
September 13, 2024
I learned how to love everyone and treat everyone as family. I learned that music can be found anywhere and is a vital expression of life.
Heidi
September 13, 2024
I was alerted to this possibility earlier in the week, but was hoping it was not true. Now I am just sad. What a gentle spirit and deep soul, as well as a wonderful musician and friend. Shamou, I will always hear your rich and loving voice in my head greeting and embracing me with a "Hey, baby girl!" It has been a long time since the Boston days and even our last conversation. We have lost a treasure. May our memories of dancing with your music and spirit hold us tight and keep you in our hearts. May you rest in peace.
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