The "ContempArabic Jazz Ensemble" was founded in 1996 when composer and bassplayer Stephan Athanas visited Egypt for six months and studied Arab music. Today it consists of musicians from Tunisia, France and Switzerland. Compositions and Arrangements of Arab music make part of the CAJE's repertoire and make arise positively the Ensemble out of the pool of so called "Worldmusic" groups. Three CD's are available so far: "Welcome to Egypt", "Nûba Hsìn - Jazzsuite en neuf mouvements" und "Malûf, Malfûf & Groove" (www.cdbaby.com) The musicians of the CAJE live in different cultures (Tunisia, France, Switzerland) and only meet several times a year for concert tours, which makes sure, that the musical roots are interpreted with great authentecy.