The fourth edition of the International Oud Festival in Tunis' medina will take place from October 16 to 24, 2026. The event, organized by the Tahar Haddad Cultural Club in partnership with the Tunis Opera Theatre, will feature a concert by the Palestinian group Le Trio Joubran on October 24 at 8:00 PM. The festival is held under the auspices of the Ministry of Cultural Affairs and the Tunis Regional Commission for Cultural Affairs.
Le Trio Joubran, composed of brothers Samir, Wissam, and Adnan Joubran from Nazareth, has been active on the international music scene since 2004. Their music combines traditional oud sounds with contemporary forms, reflecting Palestinian culture and heritage. The trio's artistic approach is also linked to the work of Palestinian poet Mahmoud Darwich, with whom they have collaborated.
The festival will also feature a scientific colloquium titled "The Tunisian Oud: Contemporary Critical Approaches and Renewal Challenges," organized in partnership with the Center for Arabic and Mediterranean Music (CMAM) in Sidi Bou Saïd. The colloquium will focus on six themes, including the historical evolution and organology of the instrument, teaching methods, and the impact of digital technologies on the digitization of musical heritage.
In addition to the colloquium, the festival program includes a day dedicated to the Tunisian oud, featuring a technical workshop led by artist Zied Mehdi and a concert with several Tunisian performers. The rest of the official program will be announced in the coming days.
Le Trio Joubran has performed on numerous international stages in Europe, the Arab world, and other continents. Based in Paris, the trio has developed a unique sound that blends traditional and modern elements. Their music is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Palestine and the enduring power of Arabic music.
The International Oud Festival aims to promote the oud and its role in Arabic music, while also highlighting the cultural exchange between Tunisia and other countries. The festival's organizers hope to attract a diverse audience and provide a platform for musicians to share their talents and experiences.
The festival's closing concert, featuring Le Trio Joubran, promises to be a memorable event, showcasing the trio's exceptional musicianship and their ability to bridge cultural divides through music. The event is expected to draw a large crowd, eager to experience the unique sound of Le Trio Joubran.
Key points
- The International Oud Festival will take place in Tunis' medina from October 16 to 24, 2026.
- Le Trio Joubran will perform at the festival's closing concert on October 24, 2026.
- The festival will feature a scientific colloquium and a day dedicated to the Tunisian oud.
