Latest news with #ClaudioAstronio
Times of Oman
12-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Times of Oman
Royal Opera House Muscat to present magnificent pipe organ show
Muscat: Music lovers in Muscat are in for a treat on February 13, as the Royal Opera House Muscat presents an exciting concert that promises to be an unforgettable event. While the evening's programme, featuring Claudio Astronio, Gianluca Marciano, and the Piccoli Cantori di Torino Children's Choir, is filled with captivating performances, the real star of the show is the magnificent pipe organ housed in the Opera House—a true national treasure. The pipe organ at the Royal Opera House Muscat is one of the largest in the Middle East, with over 4,000 pipes. Crafted by the renowned Klais Orgelbau in Germany, this extraordinary instrument stands as a masterpiece of engineering and design. Its grand presence within the Opera House perfectly complements the stunning architecture of the venue, making it not just a musical instrument, but a defining feature of the space. Notably, one of the organ pipes was specially designed in honour of Sultan Qaboos, cementing the deep connection between the Opera House and Oman's cultural heritage. What sets the pipe organ apart is its incredible range of sound. From the softest, ethereal whispers to powerful, thunderous notes, the organ's rich and resonant tones add a unique depth to any performance. The sheer scale of the instrument allows it to create a dynamic and immersive atmosphere, whether it is in the context of classical music, opera, or contemporary compositions. For this concert, the organ will be showcased in all its grandeur, with Claudio Astronio, a renowned organist, performing pieces that highlight its impressive capabilities. Over the years, the Royal Opera House Muscat's pipe organ has attracted some of the most celebrated organists in the world. Among the giants who have performed on this remarkable instrument are Olivier Latry, the French organist and titular performer at Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, who played in 2014, and David Briggs, a celebrated British organist known for his virtuosic technique, who performed in 2013. Other renowned organists include Giampaolo Di Rosa (2016) and Hansjörg Albrecht (2017), whose performances have all contributed to the Opera House's reputation as a premier venue for world-class organ music. The technical wizardry behind the Royal Opera House Muscat's pipe organ is just as impressive as its sound. The organ has been designed with great flexibility, as it can be moved on a hydraulic system to allow the performance space to be adjusted depending on the size of the ensemble or the type of event. This innovative feature ensures that the organ can be positioned for optimal acoustics in a variety of settings, making it an incredibly versatile instrument that can adapt to both large orchestral works and more intimate performances. Its ability to transform the acoustics of the room adds to its status as one of the most impressive organs in the world. The concert programme itself offers a delightful variety of music, featuring both choral and orchestral works. The Piccoli Cantori di Torino Children's Choir, conducted by Elisa Dal Corso, will perform pieces ranging from the joyful I Feel Pretty from West Side Story to the evocative La voce del mare by Francesco Corrias. The choir's performance will be enriched by the Cheltenham Muscat Choir and Downe House Muscat Choir, who will add depth to the musical experience. Their combined voices will bring a unique vibrancy to pieces by Henry Purcell, Giuseppe Verdi, and Jacques Offenbach, including the iconic Barcarolle from Les Contes d'Hoffmann. However, it is the organ that takes centre stage in the second part of the concert. Astronio will perform a varied organ repertoire that spans centuries, from Baroque elegance in Nikolaus Bruhns's works to the modern vibrancy of Philip Glass's Mad Rush. A highlight of the evening will be Handel's Organ Concerto in G Minor, a piece that perfectly showcases the organ's power and beauty. Astronio's solo performance of Mad Rush will demonstrate the versatility of the organ, transitioning from delicate,ethereal tones to bold, resonant sounds. This concert is also a celebration of cultural exchange, with works that blend European classical music, modern compositions, and even film music, such as Voir sur ton chemin from Les Choristes and Eatnemen Vuelie by Frode Fjellheim and Christophe Beck. This fusion of genres reflects the Royal Opera House Muscat's commitment to fostering global dialogue through music. The grandeur of the Opera House, with its world-class acoustics, provides the perfect setting for this extraordinary evening. The combination of the choral, organ, and orchestral music will create an immersive atmosphere that will stay with audiences long after the final note. This is a rare opportunity to experience exceptional musicianship and a one-of-a-kind musical instrument, making it a must- attend event for any music enthusiast. Don't miss this chance to witness the brilliance of the Royal Opera House Muscat's pipe organ in action.
Times of Oman
05-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Times of Oman
Get inspired with music classics at ROHM
Muscat: February is set to feature an eclectic array of performances at Royal Opera House Muscat that blend classic artistry and education. The exciting lineup will feature 'A Thousand and One Nights', a beautiful classical ballet by Fikret Amirov, from the prestigious Primorsky Stage of the Mariinsky Theatre in Vladivostok. Adding to the standard of excellence which is the stamp of the season, ROHM presents the annual concert featuring ROHM's very own regal pipe organ, with renowned organist Claudio Astronio, and, a series of events and two concerts paying homage to the Arab legend Mohammed Abdul Wahab. As a cultural beacon in the Middle East, ROHM's commitment to a packed and engaging programme of outreach events is also prominent over the next month. Upcoming Performances Beginning with 'A Thousand and One Nights' on February 6 and 7, ROHM showcases a ballet to enchant a global audience, se to evocative Middle Eastern-inspired music, the ballet explores iconic tales such as 'Sinbad the Sailor' and 'Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves'. Experience the grand explosion of sound at the Pipe Organ Concert on February 13. ROHM's unique pipe organ stars in the annual concert with organist Claudio Astronio, the Piccoli Cantori di Torino (children's choir), and the Royal Oman Symphony Orchestra conducted by Gianluca Marciano. Two children's choirs from Muscat schools will join the children's choir on stage in an exciting connection between cultures and a young generation of voices, enabling lasting memories for participants and audiences. This concert celebrates the legacy and grandeur of Oman's pipe organ, in sweet contrast to the exquisite sounds of a celebrated children's choir. Homage to Mohammed Abdul Wahab on February 15 & 20 will honour Arab music legend Mohammed Abdul Wahab with two concerts featuring prominent singers Ali El Haggar, Mohammed Mohsen, Reham Abdul Hakim, and Jahida Wehbe. The event is part of a week-long tribute celebration not to be missed for music lovers, including an exhibition, several discussion sessions and a rare screening of his much loved musical film 'A Bullet in the Heart'. ROHM's Exceptional Educational and Outreach Initiatives The rich educational and outreach programme at ROHM aims to inspire and cultivate a passion for arts and music in Oman. In February, a special array of activities delve into the inner workings of the opera house. ROHM's Open House aims to nurture the next generation of musical technicians and artists. ROHM is offering children of different ages an invaluable experience of each department of the opera house, a chance to meet the experts who 'keep the show on the road'. Workshops will be presented on make-up, costumes, lighting, props, sound, photography, storytelling, and design on February 1, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. As part of the opera house's Emerging Talents initiative, join us on 9th February for a special night with Thomas Hampson, a Grammy Award winning international baritone. He will star in a concert joined by Muscat Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and Omani Opera Choir Group, conducted by Lubnan Balbaaki. 7pm at ROHMA. Yet another Emerging Talents initiative on February 24 brings together a concert by Simon Zhu, winner of the 2023 Paganini Prize. Zhu recently performed on Paganini's legendary Cannone violin in London before King Charles III. His performance is accompanied by pianist Gile Bae, under the artistic direction of Nicola Bruzzo. Registration is free and open to everyone. The initiative extends to educational sessions consisting of a masterclass by Simon Zhu in collaboration with pianist Gile Bae, open to violin students in addition to a talk by Paganini Prize President on the history of the prize. Both initiatives on February 23. Inspired by a season full of fairy tales, Let's Read is a monthly event throughout the season welcomes all ages where they get to experience and explore the stories with expression and imagination, reading aloud from the pages of Robin Hood. The readings will be in the Music Library at Royal Opera House of Musical Arts on February 22. As part of the programme to honour the late Mohammed Abdul Wahab, Royal Opera House Muscat will be holding educational and outreach activities daily from 12th – 18th February. February 12: A discussion by Dr. Shereen Badr on Abdul Wahab's collaboration with Umm Kulthum, examining their impact on Arab music. February 14 and 19: A casual session, Coffee and Dates, with leading singers of the concert at 5:00 PM. February 17: Spirit of the Orient, a quintet concert of instrumental pieces from Abdul Wahab's repertoire at 7pm. February 18: Screening of 'A Bullet in the Heart' (1944) with a pre-screening discussion led by Ameer Ramsis, Nahla Mattar, and Mohammed Nabil. Let's read February 22 nd for Robin Hood 10-11 Arabic and 12pm-1pm English. Students will attend. With diverse performances and hands-on educational experiences, ROHM offers something for everyone this February.
Observer
29-01-2025
- Entertainment
- Observer
ROHM announces programmes for Feb
Muscat - February is set to feature an eclectic array of performances at the Royal Opera House Muscat that blend classic artistry and education. The lineup will feature A Thousand and One Nights , a beautiful classical ballet by Fikret Amirov, from the Primorsky Stage of the Mariinsky Theatre in Vladivostok. Adding to the standard of excellence which is the stamp of the season, ROHM presents the annual concert featuring ROHM's very own regal pipe organ, with renowned organist Claudio Astronio, and, a series of events and two concerts paying homage to the prominent Arab composer and singer Mohammed Abdul Wahab. As a cultural beacon in the Middle East, ROHM's commitment to a packed and engaging program of outreach events is also prominent over the next month. Upcoming Performances Beginning with A Thousand and One Nights on February 6 and 7, ROHM showcases a ballet to enchant a global audience, set to evocative Middle Eastern-inspired music, the ballet explores iconic tales such as Sinbad the Sailor and Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves. Experience the grand explosion of sound at the Pipe Organ Concert on February 13. ROHM's unique pipe organ stars in the annual concert with organist Claudio Astronio, the Piccoli Cantori di Torino (children's choir), and the Royal Oman Symphony Orchestra conducted by Gianluca Marciano. Two children's choirs from Muscat schools will join the children's choir on stage in an exciting connection between cultures and a young generation of voices, enabling lasting memories for participants and audiences. This concert celebrates the legacy and grandeur of Oman's pipe organ, in sweet contrast to the exquisite sounds of a celebrated children's choir. Homage to Mohammed Abdul Wahab on February 15 & 20 will honor Arab music legend Mohammed Abdul Wahab with two concerts featuring prominent singers Ali El Haggar, Mohammed Mohsen, Reham Abdul Hakim, and Jahida Wehbe. The event is part of a week-long tribute celebration for music lovers, including an exhibition, several discussion sessions, and a rare screening of his much-loved musical film 'A Bullet in the Heart'. ROHM's Exceptional Educational and Outreach Initiatives The rich educational and outreach program at ROHM aims to inspire and cultivate a passion for arts and music in Oman. In February, a special array of activities delve into the inner workings of the opera house. ROHM's Open House aims to nurture the next generation of musical technicians and artists. ROHM is offering children of different ages an invaluable exploration of each department of the opera house, a chance to meet the experts who 'keep the show on the road'. Workshops will be presented on make-up, costumes, lighting, props, sound, photography, storytelling, and design on February 1, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. As part of the opera house's Emerging Talents initiative, join us on 9th February for a special night with Thomas Hampson, a Grammy Award-winning international baritone. He will star in a concert joined by Muscat Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and Omani Opera Choir Group, conducted by Lubnan Balbaaki. 7 pm at ROHMA. Yet another Emerging Talents initiative on February 24 brings together a concert by Simon Zhu, winner of the 2023 Paganini Prize. Zhu recently performed on Paganini's legendary Cannone violin in London before His Majesty King Charles III. His performance is accompanied by pianist Gile Bae, under the artistic direction of Nicola Bruzzo. Registration is free and open to everyone. The initiative extends to educational sessions consisting of a masterclass by Simon Zhu in collaboration with pianist Gile Bae, open to violin students in addition to a talk by the Paganini Prize President on the history of the prize. Both initiatives are on February 23rd. Inspired by a season full of fairy tales, Let's Read is a monthly event throughout the season welcomes to all ages experience and explore the stories with expression and imagination, reading aloud from the pages of Robin Hood. The readings will be in the Music Library at the Royal Opera House of Musical Arts on February 22. As part of the program to honor the late Mohammed Abdul Wahab, Royal Opera House Muscat will be holding educational and outreach activities daily from February 12-18. February 12: A discussion by Dr. Shereen Badr on Abdul Wahab's collaboration with Umm Kulthum, examining their impact on Arab music. February 14 & 19: A casual session, Coffee and Dates, with leading singers of the concert at 5 PM. February 17: Spirit of the Orient, a quintet concert of instrumental pieces from Abdul Wahab's repertoire at 7 pm. February 18: Screening of 'A Bullet in the Heart' (1944) with a pre-screening discussion led by Ameer Ramsis, Nahla Mattar, and Mohammed Nabil. With diverse performances and hands-on educational experiences, ROHM offers something for everyone this February.
See - Sada Elbalad
28-01-2025
- Entertainment
- See - Sada Elbalad
Be Inspired This February at Royal Opera House Muscat with Music Classics
Basant Ahmed February is set to feature an eclectic array of performances at Royal Opera House Muscat that blend classic artistry and education. The exciting lineup will feature A Thousand and One Nights, a beautiful classical ballet by Fikret Amirov, from the prestigious Primorsky Stage of the Mariinsky Theatre in Vladivostok. Adding to the standard of excellence which is the stamp of the season, ROHM presents the annual concert featuring ROHM's very own regal pipe organ, with renowned organist Claudio Astronio, and, a series of events and two concerts paying homage to the prominent Arab composer and singer Mohammed Abdul Wahab. As a cultural beacon in the Middle East, ROHM's commitment to a packed and engaging programme of outreach events is also prominent over the next month. Upcoming Performances Beginning with A Thousand and One Nights on February 6 and 7, ROHM showcases a ballet to enchant a global audience, set to evocative Middle Eastern-inspired music, the ballet explores iconic tales such as Sinbad the Sailor and Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves. Experience the grand explosion of sound at the Pipe Organ Concert on February 13. ROHM's unique pipe organ stars in the annual concert with organist Claudio Astronio, the Piccoli Cantori di Torino (children's choir), and the Royal Oman Symphony Orchestra conducted by Gianluca Marciano. Two children's choirs from Muscat schools will join the children's choir on stage in an exciting connection between cultures and a young generation of voices, enabling lasting memories for participants and audiences. This concert celebrates the legacy and grandeur of Oman's pipe organ, in sweet contrast to the exquisite sounds of a celebrated children's choir. Homage to Mohammed Abdul Wahab on February 15 & 20 will honour Arab music legend Mohammed Abdul Wahab with two concerts featuring prominent singers Ali El Haggar, Mohammed Mohsen, Reham Abdul Hakim, and Jahida Wehbe. The event is part of a week-long tribute celebration for music lovers, including an exhibition, several discussion sessions and a rare screening of his much loved musical film 'A Bullet in the Heart'. ROHM's Exceptional Educational and Outreach Initiatives The rich educational and outreach programme at ROHM aims to inspire and cultivate a passion for arts and music in Oman. In February, a special array of activities delve into the inner workings of the opera house. ROHM's Open House aims to nurture the next generation of musical technicians and artists. ROHM is offering children of different ages an invaluable exploration of each department of the opera house, a chance to meet the experts who 'keep the show on the road'. Workshops will be presented on make-up, costumes, lighting, props, sound, photography, storytelling, and design on February 1, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. As part of the opera house's Emerging Talents initiative, join us on 9th February for a special night with Thomas Hampson, a Grammy Award winning international baritone. He will star in a concert joined by Muscat Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and Omani Opera Choir Group, conducted by Lubnan Balbaaki. 7pm at ROHMA. Yet another Emerging Talents initiative on February 24 brings together a concert by Simon Zhu, winner of the 2023 Paganini Prize. Zhu recently performed on Paganini's legendary Cannone violin in London before His Majesty King Charles III. His performance is accompanied by pianist Gile Bae, under the artistic direction of Nicola Bruzzo. Registration is free and open to everyone. The initiative extends to educational sessions consisting of a masterclass by Simon Zhu in collaboration with pianist Gile Bae, open to violin students in addition to a talk by Paganini Prize President on the history of the prize. Both initiatives on February 23rd. Inspired by a season full of fairy tales, Let's Read is a monthly event throughout the season welcome to all ages experience and explore the stories with expression and imagination, reading aloud from the pages of Robin Hood. The readings will be in the Music Library at Royal Opera House of Musical Arts on February 22. As part of the programme to honour the late Mohammed Abdul Wahab, Royal Opera House Muscat will be holding educational and outreach activities daily from 12th – 18th February. February 12: A discussion by Dr. Shereen Badr on Abdul Wahab's collaboration with Umm Kulthum, examining their impact on Arab music. February 14 & 19: A casual session, Coffee and Dates, with leading singers of the concert at 5:00 PM. February 17: Spirit of the Orient, a quintet concert of instrumental pieces from Abdul Wahab's repertoire at 7pm. February 18: Screening of 'A Bullet in the Heart' (1944) with a pre-screening discussion led by Ameer Ramsis, Nahla Mattar, and Mohammed Nabil. With diverse performances and hands-on educational experiences, ROHM offers something for everyone this February. For tickets and further details on the February programme, please visit
