The Egyptian Ministry of Culture has launched the 34th edition of the Arabic Music Festival, a major event celebrating Arabic music and culture. The festival, which runs from October 20 to 30, is dedicated to the late Egyptian singer Hani Shaker, known as the "Amir of Arabic Singing". The event was opened by Dr. Abdel Aziz Kansoua, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, who is also acting as Minister of Culture.

The festival is being organized by the Egyptian Opera House, led by Dr. Reza El Wakil, and features a range of musical performances, including concerts and competitions for young singers and musicians. The event aims to promote Arabic music and culture, as well as to support and encourage young talent. Dr. Kansoua emphasized the importance of preserving Arabic music and culture, and highlighted the role that the festival plays in promoting Egypt's rich cultural heritage.

During the opening ceremony, Dr. Kansoua announced that a statue of Hani Shaker will be unveiled in the Opera House courtyard, as a tribute to his contributions to Arabic music. He also praised the late Dr. Ratieba El Hafny, founder of the festival, who he said had left a lasting legacy in Egyptian and Arabic music. The festival features a range of activities, including concerts, workshops, and lectures, and has attracted participants from across the Arab world.

The festival's program includes a range of musical performances, including concerts by established and emerging artists. The event also features a scientific conference, which will discuss issues related to Arabic music and its future. Dr. Reza El Wakil, head of the Egyptian Opera House, emphasized the importance of the festival in promoting Arabic music and culture, and highlighted the role that it plays in supporting young talent.

The festival has attracted a range of participants, including musicians, singers, and musicologists from across the Arab world. The event provides a platform for young musicians to showcase their talents, and for established artists to share their experiences and expertise. The festival's organizers say that they aim to promote Arabic music and culture, and to support the development of young talent.

The festival's tribute to Hani Shaker is seen as a recognition of his significant contributions to Arabic music. Shaker was a beloved singer and composer who was known for his soulful voice and classic songs. His legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans. The festival's organizers say that they hope to keep his memory alive through events like this.

Key points of the festival include the participation of prominent musicians and singers, the announcement of a statue of Hani Shaker, and a scientific conference on Arabic music.

Key points

  • The festival is dedicated to the late Egyptian singer Hani Shaker.
  • A statue of Hani Shaker will be unveiled in the Opera House courtyard.
  • The festival features a range of musical performances and a scientific conference on Arabic music.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.