Lebanese star Magida El Roumi to topline Abu Dhabi Classics

Abu Dhabi Classics is back for its ninth edition, and the 2020 lineup offers a unique and immersive experience allowing everyone to explore and enjoy the magic and diversity of the classical music universe. Those who purchase tickets for the performances will be entered into a draw to win an exclusive meet and greet with the star performer following their concert.

Ticket holders who have already secured their seats for their favourite performer will also be entered into the draw, for the once-in-a-life opportunity to meet with a star from the world of classical music or ballet.

Svetlana Zakharova will perform at Abu Dhabi Classics 2020.

Headlining the 2020 season of Abu Dhabi Classics is the legendary Lebanese vocalist Magida El Roumi, who will captivate the du Arena, Yas Island, on Feb.7 through her crystal-clear voice and extraordinary vocal range. Having ruled the Arabic music world across the past four decades, El Roumi has recorded hits across a range of musical genres – from classical Arabic music to modern Arab pop. In 2012 she released an album ‘Ghazal’, a collection of songs she spent six years working on with poets and composers. Having kicked off her career at the tender age of 16, El Roumi’s climb to the top of the Arab world’s musical charts and her longevity makes her a more than worthy act to close out another spectacular season of Abu Dhabi Classics.

David Fray and Friends.

The great grandniece of the legendary Umm Kulthum, one of the Arab world’s most accomplished and popular singers, Sanaa Nabil is carving out a fantastic reputation in her own right as a singer. After a stunning debut on reality TV show Arabs Got Talent, where Nabil regaled fans with classic renditions of ‘Ifrah Ya Albi’, and ‘Itna Omri’ among others, performances that won her the golden buzzer, she has built up a strong following aged just 17. Having started her musical journey under Dr. Ahmad Abdullah, a leading Egyptian Oud player, her prowess as a singer was immediately apparent, being crowed the winner of the International World of Mugham competition at the age of 16.

French piano stars ready for a starring role

Piano concertos, a core genre of western classical music, will be brought to life by acclaimed French pianist David Fray as he takes the stage at the Cultural Foundation to open the ninth season of Abu Dhabi Classics on January 28 with an inspirational performance of German composer Johann Sebastian Bach’s concertos for 2, 3, and 4 pianos. On Saturday February 1, acclaimed French pianist Lise de la Salle will perform Dances, a programme which will explore dance rhythms from various times including pieces by Ravel, Stravinsky, Bartok and Debussy, as well as music from American dance culture and Latin America. Regarded as one of the greatest ballerinas of her generation, prima ballerina Svetlana Zakharova will lead a star-studded cast of dancers from the famed Bolshoi Ballet Company on January 31 at the Cultural Foundation. Zakharova will headline ‘Modanse’ a brand-new double bill produced by MuzArts. The first part will allow spectators to experience the elegance and signature grace of a beautiful ballet performance set to the Baroque style of Handel’s music, while part two will see a performance of ‘Gabrielle Chanel’ - a tribute to fashion icon and designer Coco Chanel with Zakharova essaying the lead role.