National Arab Orchestra in final rehearsals for grand Sharjah concerts on Jan. 20 & 21

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

The National Arab Orchestra, from the US state of Michigan, is in the final phase of its preparations for the two grand concerts at Al Majaz Amphitheatre in Sharjah on January 20 and 21 (Friday and Saturday). The National Arab Orchestra has won global laurels for celebrating the rich heritage of Arabic music in the United States and the West. The 40-member Orchestra boasts accomplished artists with powerful vocals and performers steeped in authentic musical traditions and the spirit of modernity.

The two historic concerts are hosted by Al Majaz Amphitheatre as part of its #LetsMajaz season, presenting celebrated Arab singers and Arab American artists and performers representing diverse cultures and backgrounds.

The National Arab Orchestra will be led by its acclaimed founder and conductor, Michael Ibrahim. He is known for his formidable presence on the stage, creating dynamic and livewire interaction and fine symphony with myriad musical rhythms and performers.

READ MORE

UAE signs international cooperation agreements during WEF

UAE discusses economy space education challenges at Davos meet

The preparation of the international troupe involves final rehearsals at the iconic Al Majaz Amphitheatre in the heart of the stunning Khalid Lagoon. The organisers and performers are leaving no stone unturned to ensure a smooth and spectacular show for the audiences in UAE.

Al Majaz Amphitheatre is dedicated to showcasing the best of artists and singers from across the Arab world and beyond, in addition to hosting various artistic, cultural, and sports events and activities throughout the year, underscoring the rich civilizational heritage of the Emirate and the region. This musical event is part of the SGMB’s partnership with the US-based National Arab Orchestra. It is part of the Emirate’s efforts to celebrate and highlight the Arab musical heritage and cultural traditions.

HE Tariq Saeed Allay, Director General of the SGMB, said: “The role played by Al Majaz Amphitheatre is at the heart of the cultural project championed by the Emirate of Sharjah, the Arab capital of creativity, as an incubator of authentic Arab culture and arts. It has been achieving its role in supporting the artists and art sector in the Arab world.”

The National Arab Orchestra will present its second concert on Saturday.

Allay stressed the significance of the pioneering role played by Al Majaz Amphitheatre and its efforts to preserve and promote authentic Arab art, pointing to the partnership with the National Arab Orchestra in this field, especially because of its cultural diversity and ability to take Arab musical heritage to other cultural environments.

Celebrating the best of Arabic musical traditions

The first of the twin National Arab Orchestra concerts held on Friday, January 20, will bring together famous singers Riham Abdelhakim and Mohannad Mashlah, who will present a bouquet of the celebrated gems from the Egyptian and Syrian musical heritage.

Due to unforeseen circumstances, Mai Farouk will not be able to take part in the concert as was announced by Al Majaz Amphitheatre and on her account of Instagram.  

Riham Abdelhakim is one of the most promising young voices in Egypt and the region. She is known for her brilliance in performing the popular songs of Kawkab Al Sharq, the legendary Umm Kulthum, and others. She has won the Golden Microphone Award twice from the Arab Broadcasters Union.

Mohannad Mashlah is widely regarded for his powerful vocals and his outstanding performance of the works of musical giants from Syria and Lebanon. He is also admired for his rendition of folk songs from the Arab musical heritage with a modern musical fusion.

The National Arab Orchestra will present its second concert on Saturday (January 21), headlined by Lebanese sensations Abeer Nehme and Mari Sarhan, in an evening dedicated to Levant Arab music. Both Abeer Nehme and Mari Sarhan are renowned for their strong stage presence and their youthful performance styles.

The National Arab Orchestra has sought, since its establishment in 2010, to spread Arab musical heritage and culture and to introduce the American and international community to authentic Arab art.

Tickets are available at Platinumlist.net.