ABU DHABI, 29th September, 2023 (WAM) — The “Andalusia: History and Civilisation” Initiative Committee has announced an exciting lineup of art and music events to grace the magnificent Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi over the upcoming months. These events will serve as a cultural bridge between Arabs and Spaniards, allowing audiences to immerse themselves in Andalusia’s rich and diverse heritage. The initiative is held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court. The initiative aims to highlight Arab civilisation in Andalusia and its values of tolerance and coexistence and to celebrate the legacy of an ancient civilisation that made significant contributions to the advancement of science, culture, literature, and arts. The initiative also underscores the shared human connections bridging various civilisations and cultures while highlighting the enduring, deep-rooted bonds between the UAE and Spain based o
n long-standing human, cultural, and historical foundations. Kicking off the programmes on 8th October, 2023, is “Cordoba Nights”, a mesmerising symphony orchestra event lasting more than an hour at the Emirates Palace. The evening promises enchanting Spanish Andalusian Symphonies, complemented by Arabic musical compositions. An orchestra of 50 talented musicians will bring this musical fusion to life under the esteemed guidance of Spanish conductor Inma Shara. She is renowned for her international contributions to classical music and has received prestigious accolades such as the “Spain Brand Honorary Ambassador” award and the “European Excellence Prize”. On 12th November, the Emirates Palace will host the “Andalusia Stanzas” titled “Ya Zaman al Wasli bil Andalusi”. This event will feature an hour and 20-minute performance by a mixed choir of male and female singers, presenting a selection of the most renowned “stanzas” pieces. Accompanied by a large band comprising 65 vocalists and musicians, this spectacul
ar night will be directed by maestro Ghada Harb. On 20th December, the Emirates Palace will also host a Flamenco Night, an hour-and-30-minute show performed by Ana Morales, a renowned flamenco dancer celebrated for her captivating performances worldwide, accompanied by her talented band of nine dancers, singers, and musicians. On January 15, 2024, the musical journey continues into the new year with an Arab-Spanish Night-themed ‘Guitar and Oriental Takht’. Internationally acclaimed guitarist, Antonio Rey, will grace the stage, accompanied by a talented ensemble of five Spanish guitarists harmonising with seven accomplished Arab musicians, playing traditional oriental instruments such as Oud, Qanun, Joza, Tanbur, and Buzuq. Rey is one of the most famous icons portraying the current flamenco guitar landscape and a recipient of various awards, such as the Latin Grammy, first place at the prestigious “Bordon Minero Prize”, and “Minas de la Union Murcia award”. Mohammed Al-Murr, Chairman of the initiative committe
e, emphasised the importance of the Andalusian cultural legacy as a treasure for Arab and Spanish artists. He asserted that these musical programmes offer audiences a unique opportunity to explore the rich heritage of Andalusian arts, encompassing human, cultural, scientific, and societal aspects, and take us on a journey back to a time when the world was filled with remarkable arts like “Stanzas”, “Flamenco”, and the guitar melodies. Al-Murr said, “These music programmes are a testament to our efforts to highlight Andalusia’s cultural heritage and showcase its beauty. Abu Dhabi’s commitment to hosting these events is pivotal in establishing the emirate on the global cultural map and introducing new generations to the diverse cultural heritage through this remarkable experience.” The initiative holds an agenda, including gatherings, symposiums, and events to strengthen the relationship between the UAE and Spain. It underscores the UAE’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage and fostering the values of to
lerance and coexistence, rooted in the extensive legacy of Arab civilisation in Andalusia. These Andalusian musical performances, including an Art Exhibition that will be held in Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, reflect the uniqueness of Arab civilisation and act as a universal language to showcase the Andalusian legacy worldwide.
Source: Emirates News Agency