Algeria is on the verge of enhancing its cultural scene with the establishment of an international philharmonic orchestra, comprising 70 musicians. This initiative, decided by President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, aims to give a new dimension to the country's musical scene. The announcement was made on the 72nd anniversary of the start of the Algerian Revolution on November 1, 1954. The orchestra will be led by maestro Mohamed Amine Kouider.
The project aims to promote Algeria's artistic heritage and give it a more significant place in major symphonic productions. The goal is to combine Algerian works and sounds with the universal classical repertoire, highlighting the skills of national musicians. This initiative is part of a broader effort to develop cultural life in Algeria. In February 2026, President Tebboune had praised this initiative and requested its gradual implementation, relying on established Algerian talents in the country and abroad.
The international dimension of the orchestra is a central element of this initiative. The project provides for the inclusion of foreign musicians alongside Algerian artists to foster artistic exchanges and share experiences. The authorities also plan to create an academy for young talents to accompany their training and prepare a new generation of musicians. With this new formation, Algeria aims to strengthen its cultural institutions and offer more visibility to its artists.
The selection process for musicians to join the International Philharmonic Orchestra of Algeria has officially begun. Culture and Arts Minister Malika Bendouda launched the auditions at the Boualem-Bessaïh Opera in Algiers. The auditions, supervised by maestro Amine Kouider, also involve Lebanese artist Marcel Khalifa, who will evaluate professional Algerian and foreign instrumentalists.
The recruitment process will take place in three stages. The first stage is dedicated to professional Algerian musicians residing in the country. The second stage concerns young graduates from regional institutes and music training establishments, particularly in Algiers, Oran, Batna, and Bouira. Foreign instrumentalists will be selected based on videos, according to criteria defined by the evaluation committee.
To ensure the quality of the selection, the jury will rely on several technical and artistic requirements, including mastery of the instrument, quality of interpretation, musical sensitivity, and the ability to play in harmony with other orchestra members. An academy will be created to support young talents and strengthen their training, which will also serve as a pool of skills for the main formation.
The auditions will continue until September 30 at the Algiers Opera rehearsal room. According to Amine Kouider, the final list of selected Algerian musicians is expected to be announced in October. With this new orchestra, Algeria aims to occupy a significant place in the international musical landscape and make its cultural institutions more visible.
Key points
- The Algerian government has launched an initiative to create an international philharmonic orchestra with 70 musicians.
- The orchestra will be led by maestro Mohamed Amine Kouider and will aim to promote Algerian artistic heritage.
- The selection process for musicians has begun, with auditions taking place in three stages.
