Sensual and exotic melodies combined with exciting percussion has made Oasis one of America's top bands specializing in Bellydance music. Not to be confused with the British rock group, the Oasis band has been playing their unique brand of music since 1985. They have won a WAMI Award as the top ethnic music band in the state of Wisconsin. Oasis' four recordings are well-known by bellydance afficianados throughout the United States, and are reaching audiences overseas as well. Dancers from as far away as Australia, Chile, Morocco, and Finland use their music in their performances.

Oasis Band and Dancers
Pictured from left are dancer JuliAna, percussionist Harley Schoville, bouzouki player Denis Kavemeier, percussionist Jim Wirt, and dancer Romnea.

Who is Oasis?
Denis Kavemeier plays bouzouki, guitar, and bass guitar. He studied music at the University of Wisconsin, where he earned a journalism degree. Besides fronting Oasis, he plays as a solo guitarist and as a sideman with other ethnic music bands. Denis' wife JuliAna teaches bellyaerobics and salsaerobics, and is a featured dancer with Oasis. She has a strong background in Balkan folkloric dance, and often performs with Denis as a duo act. Jim Wirt plays a variety of ethnic percussion instruments. He and Harley Schoville honed their skills by studying with Arabic and African master drummers. Both drummers play as a sideman with other bands as well, and Jim teaches Middle Eastern drumming. Romnea is one of the most popular bellydancers in Wisconsin. Besides being a featured dancer with Oasis, she dances in ethnic nightclubs, restaurants, and festivals. Her Arabian Night shows have been regular features at the Wisconsin State Fair.

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The OASIS Band has several recordings

• EVOLUTION: Middle Eastern and Mediterranean music arranged for the bellydancer. Bouzouki, clarinet, guitar, synthesizer. Beautiful melodies and exciting rhythms.

• SONGS FROM THE OASIS: The original breakthrough recording that won Oasis enthusiastic fans. Traditional bouzouki melodies, with Flamenco and New Age guitar. Exciting percussion. Especially suited for new dancers and dance instruction.

• NIGHT AT THE OASIS: Innovative originals and traditional melodies, peppered with dramatic percussion. Middle Eastern, Flamenco, New Age, and Jazz stylings. Talented guest artists make this an outstanding recording.

• THE DRUMS OF OASIS: This all-percussion recording by Oasis master drummer Jim Wirt explores the beats of baladi, tsiftetelli, ayoob, masmoudi, and some of his own invention.