Egyptian singer Mohamed Tharwat has announced his withdrawal from the 34th Arabic Music Festival, which is set to take place from October 20 to 30. Tharwat was scheduled to perform during the festival's opening ceremony. In a Facebook post, he explained that he could not participate in an event that disrespects Egyptian music and artists. Tharwat emphasized that his decision was based on his commitment to preserving the values and legacy of Egyptian music.
The 34th Arabic Music Festival, organized by the Egyptian Opera House under the leadership of Dr. Reda El-Wakil, is dedicated to the late Egyptian music icon, Amir El-Ghannay Hany Shaker. The festival will feature 22 concerts and musical performances by 70 Egyptian and Arab artists. Additionally, it will include a scientific conference that will discuss the topic of Arabic music between academic criticism and media treatment. The conference will be presided over by Dr. Mohamed Shabanah.
Tharwat expressed his disappointment with the current state of affairs, stating that he has always been committed to promoting Egyptian music and values. Throughout his 50-year career, he has produced a significant body of work, including children's songs, national and religious songs. He emphasized that his artistic legacy has been built on principles that he will not compromise on. Tharwat's decision to withdraw from the festival reflects his dedication to upholding the dignity of Egyptian music and artists.
The Arabic Music Festival will take place over 11 days at various theaters in Cairo, including the Cairo Opera House, the Institute, and the Small Theater. The festival will also feature a competition for young singers and musicians. The competition is divided into two sections: one for Arabic singing and the other for oud playing. The competition aims to encourage young talent and provide a platform for them to showcase their skills.
The singing competition, named after Dr. Ratieba El-Hefny, is open to young singers between the ages of 17 and 40. Participants are required to submit a video recording of themselves performing two songs: one from the Egyptian heritage and another of their choice. The competition's final round will take place on October 26, and three prizes will be awarded to the winners, totaling 90,000 Egyptian pounds.
The oud playing competition, open to participants between 17 and 40 years old, requires contestants to have a good command of reading musical notes. Participants must submit a video recording of themselves performing two pieces: one compulsory piece and another of their choice. The competition's final round will take place on October 25, and three prizes will be awarded to the winners, totaling 90,000 Egyptian pounds.
Non-Egyptian participants residing in Egypt or holding a valid visa can also participate in the competition for a fee of 1,000 Egyptian pounds. The festival's organizers have named the evenings of the festival after prominent Egyptian composers and singers, including Hany Shaker, Belaig Hamdi, Mohamed Abdel Wahab, and others.
Key points
- Mohamed Tharwat withdraws from the 34th Arabic Music Festival citing disrespect for Egyptian music and artists.
- The festival will feature 22 concerts and musical performances by 70 Egyptian and Arab artists.
- A scientific conference will be held as part of the festival to discuss Arabic music between academic criticism and media treatment.
