About Desert Knights
Desert Knights with Ankestamen on "The Joy of Bellydancing hosted by Yasmina."
Adam Burke and William Warren formed Desert Knights in order to compose, perform and record new music for belly dancers and as part of their exploration of music from other cultures. They play many original compositions, as well as popular and traditional Middle Eastern pieces.
Both Adam and William play acoustic and electric stringed instruments, assorted drums, keyboards and a number of percussion instruments, and they have collaborated in many musical styles for nearly a decade. Desert Knights, their current ensemble, has performed since 1997 in a variety of settings including COX Cable TV's "The Joy of Belly Dancing, hosted by Yasmina;" the SCA Arizona "Estrella Wars," parties, restaurants, and art galleries, such as the annual "Exotic Art Show" at the Alwun House in Phoenix. Their performances have also been featured on Arizona network affiliate radio and television news programs.
Currently, they are working on their scond album, "Camelback," as well as continuing to promote their Award-winning first album, "Desert Nights," Winner of the 1998 International Academy of Middle Eastern Dance Award for Best Music.
Adam C. Burke is a visual artist as well as musician. A life-long resident of Arizona, he has studied North Indian classical music under Maestro Ali Akbar Khan, Ustad Fayaz Ali Khan, and Pandit Jasraj, and he is currently studying the tabla (Indian drums). In addition to belly dance music, he continues to perform Far- and Near-Eastern "devotional" music, as well as rock and related forms. He has contributed articles to Zaghareet!, Jareeda, Bhuz!.com, and Arizona's AMEDA magazines.
William R. Warren also was born in Phoenix. He has specialized in a variety of musical styles and instruments, and he has attended Middle Eastern style classes given by Omar Faruk Tekbilek and other renowned musicians. He also performs with Andrea's Blue Dragon ATS dance troupe in Northern Arizona and throughout the State.
Desert Knights may be available for live performances in your area. They may be reached by e-mail, or in writing to: Desert Knights PO Box 15051 Phoenix, AZ 85060-5051.