Formed by clarinetist and composer Elena Perales Andreu and percussionist and composer Madalena Rato, araia is a duo born out of a deep friendship and shared cultural heritage. Both originally from the Iberian Peninsula and now based in Oslo, the duo's name is inspired by "A Raia," the border between Portugal and Spain—a name that reflects their artistic mission to work at the intersection of musical boundaries.

ARAIA works exclusively with contemporary music, whether in collaborations with other composers or through their own compositions and improvisations. They are committed to expanding the lines, boundaries, and limits for themselves, composers, and listeners alike.