Moroccan Jewish Heritage Shines at Tafraout's National Mghrebian Music and Poetry Gathering

The 13th National Gathering for Mghrebian Music and Poetry recently took place in Tafraout, Morocco, from November 6 to 8, 2026. The event was organized by the Rodani Association for Mghrebian Music and Folk Arts, in partnership with the Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Communication - Culture Sector, and the Tafraout Territorial Group. The gathering celebrated Moroccan cultural heritage, with a focus on preserving and promoting Mghrebian music and poetry.

The event's closing ceremony featured a performance of traditional Moroccan Jewish music, titled "Paimoun," performed by Ismail Askarou and the Rodani Ensemble. This musical piece highlighted the rich cultural diversity of Morocco, showcasing the country's Jewish heritage as an integral part of its national identity. The performance was well-received by the audience, emphasizing the importance of preserving and celebrating Morocco's cultural mosaic.

The gathering included various activities, such as musical performances, intellectual debates, and heritage-themed segments. The event brought together artists, musicians, and enthusiasts from across Morocco, including cities like Marrakech, Kenitra, Erfoud, Rabat, Agadir, and Tafraout. The Rodani Association's efforts aim to preserve and promote Moroccan cultural heritage, particularly Mghrebian music and poetry.

A key part of the event was a tribute to two renowned artists, Mustafa Akhlifi and Abdel Fattah Boudarouafi. The gathering also featured a workshop on the theme "Mghrebian Music in Service to National Causes: The Green March as an Example." This intellectual debate explored the role of art and culture in shaping national identity and collective memory.

The Rodani Association organized a special segment, "A Journey Through Tafraout's Old Medina," which allowed participants to experience the city's rich cultural heritage firsthand. This initiative demonstrated the importance of community involvement in preserving and promoting Morocco's intangible cultural heritage.

The event concluded with a renewed commitment to preserving and promoting Moroccan cultural heritage, particularly Mghrebian music and poetry. The gathering demonstrated Tafraout's significance as a hub for celebrating Moroccan culture and its role in fostering community engagement and cultural exchange.

The National Gathering for Mghrebian Music and Poetry serves as a testament to Morocco's rich cultural diversity and its efforts to preserve and promote its heritage. By bringing together artists, musicians, and enthusiasts, the event highlights the importance of cultural exchange and community involvement in safeguarding Morocco's cultural identity.

Key points

• Moroccan Jewish musical heritage takes center stage at the 13th National Gathering for Mghrebian Music and Poetry in Tafraout.