''I'm in Love With Alexey Shor's Lyrical Themes,'' says Edgar Moreau ahead of InClassica 2025 performance at Dubai Opera
Gulf Network
Poised to make a grand comeback on the global classical music stage, the historic
InClassica International Music Festival
is returning to Dubai for its fifth consecutive year, with its 14th edition featuring a fantastic lineup of artists, orchestras, and memorable performances. The world's biggest musical observatory will occur from the 6th to the 21st of April, with 2025's special iteration dedicated to the legacy of its acclaimed Composer-in-Residence Alexey Shor.
The maestro's works will play a central role throughout the musical affair courtesy of a series of performances by world-renowned musicians, with no less than 14 acclaimed soloists, five esteemed conductors, and two international orchestras showcasing the best of classical music at the breathtaking Dubai Opera.
Among the highly-anticipated musicians performing at the event is distinguished French cellist Edgar Moreau, making his Dubai debut at the iconic festival. Prizewinner at the 2009 Rostropovich Competition and 2011 Tchaikovsky Competition, the charismatic cello player has a multi-award-winning career under his belt, having performed with the likes of Valery Gergiev, Gidon Kremer, András Schiff, Yuri Bashmet, Krzysztof Penderecki, Gustavo Dudamel etc.
Recipient of many musical awards, the Academie Maurice Ravel Prize 2011, the Banque Populaire Foundation, 'Classic Revelation' by France's Adami, French-Speaking Public Radios Young Musician Prize 2013, and named 'New Talent of the Year 2013' and 'Instrumental Soloist of the Year 2015' by the French Victoires de la Musique, Moreau regularly performs in prestigious venues, including New York Carnegie Hall, Berlin Philharmonie, Vienna Musikverein and Konzerthaus, Amsterdam Concertgebouw, among others.
Aptly titled 'French Cello Delight', Edgar Moreau's premiere concert at InClassica will take place on April 8, where he will be seen collaborating with Spanish conductor Tomàs Grau and renowned Barcelona-based orchestra, the Franz Schubert Filharmonia. The diverse programme of the musical celebration will feature Ludwig van Beethoven's 'Egmont' overture, Op. 84, followed by Alexey Shor's Cello Concerto No. 3 and Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky's emotionally charged Symphony No. 4 in F minor, Op. 36.
Alexey Shor, InClassica Composer-in-Residence
Ahead of his debut performance at InClassica 2025, we sat down with Edgar Moreau to discuss his upcoming collaborations, thoughts on resident composer Alexey Shor's contemporary musical style and what he hopes the audience at the Dubai Opera takes away from his passionate concert.
What does it mean to you to perform at the InClassica International Music Festival, and how does its atmosphere compare to other festivals you've attended?
I'm thrilled to be a part of the InClassica International Music Festival, especially as it will be my first time performing in Dubai. When I looked at the musical programme of this terrific affair, I realised that all the major conductors and soloists are coming to this wonderful festival, which made me want to join.
Having played in cities like Sharjah, Abu Dhabi several times, and Al Ain a few years ago, my experiences in the UAE have been amazing, so I look forward to coming to Dubai for the first time and meeting the public there. I'm sure this wonderful festival will become one of the major venues in the world and the most important event in the region.
How do you approach working with new orchestras and conductors to create a cohesive musical experience?
This festival marks many firsts for me, including working with Tomas Grau and the Franz Schubert Filharmonia for the first time. I'm grateful for the opportunity to meet new orchestras, conductors, and musicians and to have the possibility to create something very fresh from the start. I've already experienced that feeling several times, and I look forward to this new collaboration with all these wonderful artists.
What part of your compelling programme at InClassica are you most excited about?
I'm really looking forward to presenting Alexey Shor's wonderful Cello Concerto No. 3 at InClassica. This summer, I had the pleasure of meeting Alexey Shor in Verbier, Switzerland. I presented his piano trio alongside Daniel Lozakovich and fell deeply in love with his beautiful, lyrical, and rhythmic themes.
I believe Shor is one of the most incredible living composers today. His music is profoundly romantic but, at the same time, very modern. You can sense a lot of different influences and backgrounds in his compositions, which provide the perfect blend of virtuosity, rhythm and, of course, melodies.
Is there a particular sentiment you'd like to leave with the audience at the Dubai Opera after your performance?
I feel fortunate to perform for InClassica audiences, especially after learning about the exceptional acoustics of the venue. I will be bringing my wonderful cello with me, which is more than 300 years old, dating back to 1711.
Playing modern music in such a contemporary hall will create a perfect blend of the past and the present, bringing beautiful sounds and inspiring music come together. I look forward to meeting audiences old and new and can't wait to see you all very soon in Dubai.
For more details about InClassica 2025, visit the festival's official website
here
.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
What's On
15 hours ago
- What's On
Eugène Eugène is the chic indoor garden escape you need this summer - What's On
Looking to beat the heat while enjoying great food and beautiful vibes? Eugène Eugène, Dubai's coolest hidden gem, is where you need to be Tucked away on the second floor of Kempinski Hotel at Mall of the Emirates, this lush, indoor garden restaurant is the breezy escape your social calendar needs. With hanging greenery, soft daylight, and the serene charm of a French greenhouse, Eugène Eugène offers you all the alfresco feels. The menu: French, fresh, and très chic From salmon tartare and foie gras terrine to a truffle artichoke spinach salad and crunchy seabass, every plate is light, seasonal, and full of that effortless French flair. And if you're feeling classic? Don't skip the bavette à l'échalote — simple, juicy perfection. Midday must: business lunch Weekday warriors, take note. Eugène Eugène is also a hotspot for refined business lunches, with set menus from just Dhs105. It's the perfect excuse to take that meeting out of the office (and into the greenhouse). Mark Your Calendars Friday, July 4 : Kick back with live music and dinner in a stunning, lush setting that'll soothe your senses. This is an unmissable experience, as the live music takes place only once a month. Sunday, July 13: Celebrate Bastille Day Brunch in style. Three-hour packages start at Dhs325, with food, vibes, and liberté for all. So whether you're brunching, lunching, or simply lounging, Eugène Eugène is your go-to garden party this summer. Eugène Eugène, Kempinski Hotel, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai, daily from 12pm to 11.30pm, business lunch served Mon to Fri, 12pm to 4pm, Tel: (0) 4 379 8963, book@ Images: Supplied
Emirates Woman
16 hours ago
- Emirates Woman
10 sky-high indoor Dubai restaurants that serve up the best outdoor views this summer
When summer heat makes outdoor dining unbearable, these indoor restaurants offer the perfect solution—spectacular views without the scorching sun. From revolving panoramas to sky-high vantage points, here are the top spots in Dubai where you can savor gourmet meals while soaking in the city's breathtaking skyline. Al Dawaar Revolving Restaurant Perched on the 25th floor of Hyatt Regency Dubai, Al Dawaar is the city's only revolving restaurant, ensuring every seat comes with a 360-degree view. As you indulge in a classic buffet, the restaurant completes a full rotation in 90 minutes, showcasing Deira, the creek, and beyond. While the novelty may fade, the sweeping vistas remain unforgettable, especially at sunset when the city lights begin to twinkle. The international buffet features everything from fresh seafood to Middle Eastern specialties, making it a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Location: Hyatt Regency Dubai, Deira Corniche Timings: Mon-Fri, 6:30pm–11:30pm; Sat-Sun, 12:30pm–4pm, 6:30pm–11:30pm Al Muntaha, Burj Al Arab For those who can't splurge on a stay at the iconic Burj Al Arab, dining at Al Muntaha offers a taste of its luxury. Situated on the 27th floor, this fine-dining French restaurant delivers exquisite cuisine paired with panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf and Dubai's coastline. The elegant ambiance and impeccable service make it ideal for special occasions, while dishes like foie gras and truffle-infused creations elevate the experience. Location: Burj Al Arab, Umm Suqeim Timings: Daily, 12:30pm–2:30pm, 7pm–10pm Atmosphere, Burj Khalifa Occupying the 122nd floor of the world's tallest building, Atmosphere is a destination in itself. Whether for breakfast, high tea, or dinner, guests are treated to unmatched 360-degree views alongside gourmet dishes like Wagyu tomahawk and blue lobster. The lounge area offers a more relaxed setting for cocktails, while the restaurant's refined menu ensures a memorable dining experience from day to night. Location: Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai Timings: 7:00am to 2:00am (restaurant and lounge hours vary) Bar des Prés, ICD Brookfield Place A fusion of French and East Asian flavors, Bar des Prés sits on the 51st floor with sleek Parisian-inspired interiors. The menu highlights seasonal ingredients, featuring dishes like crab and avocado galette and chocolate soufflé, all enjoyed against a backdrop of Dubai's financial district. The restaurant's chic, intimate atmosphere makes it perfect for both business lunches and romantic dinners. Location: ICD Brookfield Place, DIFC Timings: Daily, noon–3pm, 7pm–1am Sushi Samba, The Palm Soaring on the 51st floor of The St. Regis Dubai, Sushi Samba has been dazzling diners since 2021 with its vibrant fusion of Japanese, Brazilian and Peruvian flavors paired with breathtaking 360-degree Palm Jumeirah vistas. The restaurant's lush tropical aesthetic – featuring orange velvet banquettes, bamboo accents and cascading greenery – creates an immersive dining experience that transports guests from Dubai to Rio. Location: The St. Regis Dubai, Palm Jumeirah Timings: 12:00pm-3:00pm, 6:00pm to 2:00am on weekdays, 1:00pm to 3:30pm, 6:00pm to 3:00am on weekends. Birds, Address Downtown A blend of fine dining and entertainment, Birds on the 63rd floor offers Japanese-inspired dishes like Wagyu tataki alongside live performances. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the Burj Khalifa and Downtown's glittering lights, creating a dramatic setting. The inventive cocktails and vibrant atmosphere make it a hotspot for both dinner and late-night gatherings. Location: Address Downtown, Downtown Dubai Timings: Tues-Sun, 5:00pm–3:00am Carna by Dario Cecchini Helmed by a legendary Tuscan butcher, Carna on the 74th floor combines sustainable meat-centric dishes with sweeping Business Bay views. Don't miss the Chianti sushi or the famed bistecca alla Fiorentina, both showcasing the chef's dedication to quality and tradition. The stylish, masculine décor and open kitchen add to the immersive dining experience. Location: SLS Dubai Hotel, Business Bay Timings: Daily, 6:30pm–1am CouCou Dubai, The Palm At 240 meters above sea level, CouCou offers a Mediterranean feast with 360-degree views of the Palm and Arabian Gulf. The elegant setting and inventive cocktails make it ideal for a romantic evening, while dishes like fresh seafood and premium cuts ensure a memorable meal. The outdoor terrace is particularly enchanting as the sun sets over the water. Location: The View at The Palm, Palm Tower Timings: Daily, 8pm–2am Row on 45, Grosvenor House Jason Atherton's two-Michelin-starred gem presents a 17-course tasting menu with Dubai Marina as its backdrop. The British-Japanese fusion dishes, paired with an award-winning wine selection, make for an extraordinary culinary journey. Each course is a work of art, and the intimate, exclusive setting ensures an unforgettable dining experience. Location: Grosvenor House, Dubai Marina Timings: 7:00pm to 1:00am, (closed on Sunday and Monday) Nobu, Atlantis The Palm The legendary Nobu needs no introduction, and its Dubai outpost lives up to the global reputation. Perched in the former Royal Bridge Suite at Atlantis The Palm, this sophisticated dining destination blends exquisite Japanese-Peruvian cuisine with breathtaking views of the Palm Jumeirah and Dubai's skyline. The terrace offers an especially magical vantage point, whether you visit by day when the turquoise waters dazzle or by night when the city lights create a dramatic backdrop. Location: Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah Hours: 6:00pm to 1:00am weekdays, 12:30pm to 3:00pm, 6:00pm to 1:30am on weekends. For a summer of elevated dining and unforgettable vistas, these restaurants promise more than just a meal—they offer a feast for the eyes. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in Dubai's culinary scene, these sky-high venues deliver ambiance, flavor, and breathtaking views in equal measure. – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @katieflotskaya
What's On
3 days ago
- What's On
8 of the best spas in Dubai that feel like a mini holiday
Some days just call for disappearing – just you, a robe, and a room that smells like eucalyptus. A slow slide into calm, quiet, and the kind of silence that feels like a reset button and the version of you who isn't replying to emails or watching the clock. No special occasion – just a solid excuse to hide from the world in a steam room and do absolutely nothing. Some of the best spas in Dubai will make you feel worlds away without actually going anywhere. Dreamy, quiet, and just the right kind of escape. Here's where to let it all melt, zone out, and feel like you've gone somewhere far away. Click through the gallery 3 of 12 Hidden inside the stunning One&Only The Palm, Guerlain Spa is a refined retreat dedicated to the iconic French beauty brand. From the moment you walk in, the signature scent hits you, cold face cloths lightly misted with Guerlain fragrances set the tone. The calm, neutral-toned corridors lead you to private treatment rooms adorned with subtle floral patterns, keeping it elegant yet relaxed. The menu features signature treatments like the Desert D'Orient journey, a blend of scrub, wrap, steam, and massage, and the One&Only Solar Evasion, a face and body exfoliation designed to get your skin glowing. There's also the Imperial Face Sculpt, a deep tissue facial workout that lifts, tones, and contours your face with an hour of blissful massage and boosted circulation. Location: Guerlain Spa, One&Only The Palm Contact: (0)4 440 0100. Atlantis The Royal is a showstopper from the moment you step in, think flaming walls and massive fish tanks that feel like an aquarium meets art gallery. Is it spa? Equally impressive, located on the lower ground floor, this sanctuary is worth the 20-minute cruise around the Palm's East Crescent, even if it's just for a massage. The spa feels like a dark, calming hideaway. Inside, rough black timber and French panelling all wrapped in low light and chill vibes. There's a charcoal sauna for detox, an aroma steam room for deep hydration, a hydrotherapy pool with massage jets, a halotherapy salt room to boost your serotonin, and an alchemy shower designed to lift your spirits. Location: Awaken Spa, Atlantis The Royal, Palm Jumeirah Contact: (0)4 426 0000. At Bulgari Resort Dubai, wellness is luxury with every detail dialled in. Designed by Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel, the spa matches the Italian jewellery house's aesthetic. Step inside the Turkish hammam where Iranian green onyx meets Afyon marble. The Vitality Pool, inspired by the ancient Caracalla baths, shimmers with green and real gold mosaics right next to the main indoor swimming pool. Some of the spa's signature treatments include the 90-minute Exclusive Bulgari Facial. It combines a customised fascia massage to boost cell regeneration, a jade Gua Sha to lift and sculpt, and a scalp massage. Location: Bulgari Resort Dubai, Jumeirah Bay Island Contact: (0)4 317 4317. Set on the edge of Bluewaters Island, Banyan Tree Dubai is home to one of the city's most design-forward new spa spaces. It swaps the brand's usual darker tones for light, airy textures, all curved architecture, sandy marble and a corridor bathed in natural light that leads you into a state of calm before your treatment even begins. There are seven ensuite rooms, minimal and soothing, with sculptural mirrors and quiet corners to get changed and breathe. The treatment menu covers everything from Balinese massages and deep scrubs to herbal facials and long, ritual-style sessions that feel like a reset. The standout? The Rainforest Experience: a full hour in your own private space with a sauna, steam room, jacuzzi and tropical shower, just for you. Total silence. Total solitude. Location: Banyan Tree Dubai, Bluewaters Island Contact: (0)4 556 666. Talise Ottoman Spa at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray is the definition of Arabian luxury. It's an escape that honours the ancient art of bathing as more than just cleansing, it’s about renewing your body and soul. The space dazzles with mosaic tiles, flowing curtains, and a massive chandelier that crowns the Thalassotherapy pool. Around the pool, cosy velvet seating areas, the perfect spot to draw the curtains and claim your own private sanctuary. More than just a spa, it’s a day-long retreat. Expect to float in the mineral-rich Thalassotherapy pool, steam away stress in the hammam, test your limits in the icy Snow Room, or let the jacuzzi work its magic on tight muscles. There’s also a sauna to help detox and reset. If you’re craving total escape with a rich cultural edge, this is the place to lose yourself and find your calm. Location: Talise Ottoman Spa, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, Palm Jumeirah Contact: (0)4 453 0000. If you’re craving a spa day that feels like stepping into a Dior boutique, this is it. Sitting on the 29th floor of The Lana, part of the Dorchester Collection, Dior Spa is all about quiet elegance and design, think polished parquet floors, soft lighting, and shelves stacked with their signature fragrances and skincare. Expect treatment rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the city like a live artwork. Inside, the treatment rooms carry subtle nods to the French Maison with Toile de Jouy cushions and throws, Dior coffee table books, and soft floral touches in dusky pinks that keep things inviting, never overdone. The menu is as high fashion as you’d expect, personalised treatments paired with cutting-edge tech like the Japanese Iyashi Dome infrared sauna (for slimming and anti-aging), LED therapy, and Icoone therapy. It’s a spot for those who want their beauty and wellness wrapped in scientific expertise and pure sophistication. Location: Dior Spa, The Lana, Dorchester Collection, Downtown Dubai Contact: (0)4 567 9999. Set by the Creek, Park Hyatt Dubai feels like a total escape, leafy, quiet, and low-key beautiful. Right in the heart of it all is Amara Spa, a hidden gem locals have loved for years, and for good reason. Surrounded by palm trees, bougainvillea and a postcard-worthy golf course, this spot makes switching off feel effortless. The spa menu is all about Natura Bisse facials, Gharieni tech-driven body treatments, and rituals that blend the old-school and the futuristic. You'll find things like psammotherapy (that's a warm quartz-sand bed), Welnamis acoustic therapy, and Touchless iDome with infrared light, all built to reset your body and clear your mind. To stretch the day into a proper mini-holiday, pair your treatment with a pool pass and follow it up with lunch or sunset drinks at Noepe, the Creekside terrace spot with chilled yacht-club views and a great rose list. Location: Amara Spa, Park Hyatt Dubai, Dubai Creek Resort Contact: (0)4 602 1660. Fairmont The Palm has quietly given its spa a glow-up, and Serenity now lives up to its name more than ever. It's one of the few spas in the city that includes proper hydrothermal perks, steam, sauna, and jacuzzi with every treatment. Inside, it's calm and thoughtfully designed. Soft arches, warm tones, and the low hum of meditation music guide you through to the treatment rooms. In both the male and female spaces you'll find a large steam room, sauna, jacuzzi, and a quiet spot for sipping herbal tea with fresh muffins and dates. Prefer to spa together? There's also a unisex area with the same setup. The spa list features classic and contemporary treatments, from sea salt scrubs and bathing rituals to Swiss Line Hydrafacials, traditional hammam, and CBD-infused massages. Location: Serenity Spa, Fairmont The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Contact: (0)4 457 3545. Images: Instagram > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
