'Marvels of Saudi Orchestra' Enchants London with 100 Saudi Musicians, Performers

London, September 29, 2024, SPA -- The Music Commission concluded the "Marvels of Saudi Orchestra" concert at its fourth stop, held at Central Hall Westminster in London under the patronage of Minister of Culture and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Music Commission Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan.
The event featured 100 musicians and performers from the Saudi National Orchestra and Choir and was attended by dignitaries, officials, businessmen, and media figures.
In his opening speech, Chief Executive Officer of the Music Commission Paul Pacifico highlighted the great successes achieved in previous editions of the "Marvels of Saudi Orchestra" concert in global capitals. He attributed these achievements to the support of Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan. Pacifico commended the concert as part of initiatives aimed at sharing Saudi musical heritage and diversity with the world through international participation by highly trained Saudi personnel. He also expressed the commission’s commitment to elevating Saudi music, emphasizing its role in cultural exchange to foster communication and understanding among people worldwide.
As a tribute to the poetic creativity of the late poet Prince Badr bin Abdulmohsen, the concert began by honoring his significant cultural contributions, during which he produced numerous poetic works that enriched the cultural scene. The Saudi National Orchestra and Choir opened the event with the song "Ana Min Hal Ard" ("I Am from This Land"), written by the late poet, performed by Saudi star Mohammed Abdu, and composed by Abdulrab Idris.
To further promote Saudi arts on the global stage, the Theater and Performing Arts Commission presented three traditional artistic works accompanied by famous Saudi songs, reflecting the country’s cultural heritage. The performance included the Samri art with Mohammed Abdu's song "Esmaheely Yal Gharam," the Yanbu art form through "Hanna Talabna Allah," and the Rabash art form with "Saudiyeen."
The first segment concluded with the Saudi National Orchestra and Choir performing a Saudi adaptation of British star Adele’s famous song "Rolling in the Deep."
The second segment opened with a performance by the British Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and RSVP Voices, led by British conductor Benjamin Pope and opera singer Dame Sarah Connolly. The British ensemble began with "Crown Imperial" by William Walton.
The concert concluded with a collaboration blending music and culture from both civilizations, featuring a joint performance by the Saudi orchestra and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra under the direction of Saudi maestro Hani Farhat. The performance included musical works composed by Mohammed Ashi and Rami Basahih.
The "Marvels of Saudi Orchestra" concert in London marked its fourth stop, following successful performances at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris, the Auditorio Nacional in Mexico City, and the Metropolitan Opera House in New York. The concert series will continue in various global venues, introducing the splendors of Saudi music and fostering international cultural exchange in line with the goals of the Music Commission.
-- SPA