Abu Dhabi: The capital sure has a ear for music, as concert after concert by overseas bands have established. But a gala event at the Abu Dhabi National Theatre on April 25 will prove UAE residents are not just good audiences - they are world-class performers too.
A homegrown ensemble, the National Symphony Orchestra (NSO), which comprises both Emiratis and expatriates, is all set to strike a classical high when the Abu Dhabi premiere of Carl Orff’s most famous work Carmina Burana opens at the theatre this Friday.
Comprising music teachers, singers and others from across the emirates, the NSO’s efforts to promote music in the UAE since its launch in 2011 comes full circle with this 90-minute performance.
NSO founder Janet Hassouneh told XPRESS: “This will be an extraordinary show in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Community Development. Carmina Burana will be performed with a 65-piece orchestra, 80-voice adult choir, a 30-member children’s choir and three vocal soloists in the second half of the concert.”
Sonia Gonzalez of the orchestra said despite their hectic schedules, the ensemble’s 140 members have been meeting every week for two months to prepare for the big night.
The first half of the concert will include orchestral favourite Finlandia by Sibelieus and international award winning pianist Ioannis Potamousis performing Rachmaninoff’s virtuosic Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini Op 43. Emirati soprano Balqees Fathi, known for her vocal performances throughout the Gulf, will also make a much awaited appearance. NSO’s goodwill ambassador, she will render classic Arabic song Atini El Nai and a aria by French opera composer Jules Massenet.
Gonzalez said the piece, directed by Andrew Berryman, will be sung in Latin, high German and old French and will include some of the best known 20th century classical melodies. “It has something for both seasoned concert-goers and those who are new to classical music.”
When: April 25, 7.30pm Where: Abu Dhabi National Theatre How much: Dh250 (VIP), Dh150 (general) and Dh75 (students) More info at: musicagency@uaenso.org, info@uaenso.org