The life of a musician is often romanticized as a whirlwind of live performances, studio sessions, and creative breakthroughs. However, for Abbas Sharif Al askari, a guitarist, composer, and music producer, the reality goes far beyond the stage. His daily routine is structured around refining his craft, managing his career, and constantly pushing creative boundaries. Having built a reputation for blending Middle Eastern maqam with Western rock and progressive elements, his journey across both the UK and UAE has shaped his unique approach to music.
With the music industry becoming more competitive than ever, consistency and innovation are just as important as raw talent. According to Spotify’s 2023 Global Music Report, over 120,000 new tracks are uploaded daily, making it essential for musicians to stand out. A 2022 MIDiA Research study found that 68% of independent artists now handle their own production, marketing, and business management, reflecting the shift towards self-sufficiency in the modern music landscape. For Alaskari, balancing multiple roles—as a performer, producer, and educator—has become a fundamental part of his musical journey.
Mornings: Creative Exploration and Guitar Practice
Alaskari’s mornings begin with a focus on creativity and technical refinement. Studies suggest that musicians experience peak creativity within the first three hours of waking up, due to heightened dopamine levels and minimal distractions. This time is dedicated to practicing guitar, composing new ideas, and experimenting with unconventional techniques. His signature fusion style, which incorporates microtonal phrasing, fretless guitar work, and maqam-inspired melodies, is continuously evolving. With an emphasis on hybrid picking, intricate rhythm structures, and ambient textures, his morning sessions often lay the groundwork for compositions featured in his upcoming solo album, Between Two Worlds.
Afternoons: Studio Work and Music Production
As an independent artist, Alaskari spends a significant portion of his day in the studio. His recording sessions revolve around layering Middle Eastern melodies with Western rock elements, using techniques such as stereo delays, percussive fingerpicking, and dynamic chord voicings. According to Berklee College of Music’s 2023 study, 73% of independent artists now produce and record their music from personal studios, a trend that aligns with Alaskari’s hands-on approach.
Whether working on his own tracks or collaborating with other musicians, Alaskari maintains a balance between structured planning and creative spontaneity. He believes that some of the most compelling musical ideas emerge from unexpected moments during recording sessions. His production process involves blending live instrumentation with modern sonic textures, ensuring that his fusion compositions sound organic yet expansive.
Evenings: Teaching, Mentorship, and Industry Engagement
Beyond performing and producing, Alaskari is also a dedicated educator. With experience teaching at prestigious institutions such as The Guitar Institute London and the British & Irish Modern Music Institute (BIMM), he has witnessed the growing interest in fusion music among young guitarists. A 2023 Fender Research study found that 62% of guitarists under 30 are now exploring non-Western scales, a trend that aligns with his teaching philosophy. Through mentorship, he encourages students to step beyond conventional scales and experiment with diverse musical influences, ensuring that the next generation of guitarists continues to push boundaries.
Evenings are also spent engaging with the wider music industry, analyzing trends, and networking with fellow musicians. With social media playing an increasing role in music discovery, staying connected with listeners online has become crucial. A 2023 IFPI report revealed that 78% of new music discovery happens through platforms like TikTok and Instagram, making digital presence a key element of an artist’s career. Whether sharing behind-the-scenes content, live jam sessions, or insights into his creative process, Alaskari uses these platforms to connect with a global audience.
Final Thoughts: The Balance Between Creativity and Strategy
For Abbas Sherif Al askari, music is more than just performance—it’s a lifelong commitment to innovation, discipline, and storytelling. His daily routine reflects the balance required to thrive as a modern musician, blending structured practice with spontaneous creativity, technical mastery with personal expression, and traditional influences with modern production.
While the excitement of live performances remains a core part of his career, he believes that the true artistry happens behind the scenes—in the hours spent refining techniques, composing melodies, and pushing creative limits. His journey, from Dubai’s vibrant indie scene to London’s progressive music culture, has reinforced his belief that music transcends borders. By integrating diverse influences into his sound, he continues to shape a unique voice in the global fusion music scene.
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