Latest news with #QatarPhilharmonicOrchestra
Qatar Tribune
12-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Qatar Tribune
QPO set to celebrate French composers at Katara concert
Tribune News Network Doha The Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra (QPO) will pay tribute to the rich legacy of French classical music in a captivating performance on Monday, May 12, at 7:30 pm at the Katara Opera House. The concert, conducted by the distinguished Elias Grandy, will present a programme that journeys through evocative soundscapes, fairy-tale imagination and rhythmic brilliance. The evening opens with Georges Bizet's L'Arlésienne Suite No. 2, a vibrant selection drawn from his incidental music for Alphonse Daudet's 1872 play L'Arlésienne. Although the play closed after only 21 performances, Bizet's music gained lasting popularity. The suite, especially the spirited 'Farandole', showcases Bizet's gift for melody and his deft use of polyphonic textures, illustrating the emotional turmoil of a young man caught between love and betrayal. Next, the Philharmonic will perform Paul Dukas' The Sorcerer's Apprentice, a symphonic scherzo inspired by Goethe's 1797 poem. The work, premiered in Paris in 1897 under Dukas' own direction, narrates the comical and chaotic adventure of a young apprentice who unwittingly unleashes a magical disaster. This piece gained global fame after being featured in Walt Disney's 1940 film 'Fantasia', and remains a favourite for its dramatic tension and playful orchestration. After the intermission, audiences will be transported into a world of fairy tales with Maurice Ravel's Mother Goose Suite (Ma mère l'Oye). Originally composed as a set of piano duets for children in 1910 and later orchestrated, the suite draws inspiration from classic stories including Sleeping Beauty, Tom Thumb, and Beauty and the Beast. With delicate textures and imaginative instrumentation, Ravel's music paints a whimsical and enchanting soundscape that appeals to both children and adults alike. The concert will culminate in Ravel's Boléro, one of the most recognisable and hypnotic compositions of the 20th century. Characterised by its persistent rhythm and gradual crescendo, Boléro builds a powerful sense of anticipation that ultimately erupts in a triumphant finale. Originally composed as a ballet in 1928, it has since become a staple of orchestral repertoire and a testament to Ravel's ingenuity. With its thoughtfully curated programme and masterful performances, this Qatar Philharmonic concert promises an unforgettable evening that celebrates the timeless beauty and storytelling power of French music.
Qatar Tribune
03-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Qatar Tribune
Live Music Under the Stars: CineMoon Ensemble brings classical sound to school community
Under a starlit Doha sky, the CineMoon Ensemble, member of the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra, delivered a memorable concert at the German International School Doha. Titled 'Live Music Under the Stars', the concert combined musical performance with educational engagement in a setting designed to bring students and professionals altogether. The concert started with a performance from the school's band then followed by the performance of the CineMoon Ensemble. Merve Kenet Bulun, founder and artistic director of CineMoon Ensemble, said: 'The highlight of this evening was really the message behind it. Our collaboration between the CineMoon Ensemble and the school band was very meaningful to me. Music brought us together — experienced musicians and young students just starting their journey. It was a joy to share the stage with them, and I truly admire their professionalism and the happiness they showed while performing.' The evening's repertoire featured a mix of classical pieces, captivating an audience of around 180 guests. The open-air setting of thecampus, described by Principal Kai Darmstädter as a 'garden party', provided the perfect ambiance for an intimate yet vibrant musical experience. Darmstädter described the concert as part of the school's effort to promote cultural engagement within the wider explained that the event, which is the second time that they are doing, is a chance to invite people into the school, not only to enjoy music, but to see that classical music is accessible and enjoyable. Acknowledging that many students are more familiar with pop music and digital content, Darmstädter noted the value of exposing them to orchestral instruments and live ensembles. He noted that they have limited time for music in the curriculum, and events like this help bridge the gap as they give students a different kind of musical experience. The concert also served as a learning opportunity, with teachers using the occasion to introduce students to orchestral arrangements, instrument families, and the work of the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra. The partnership with CineMoon Ensemble has already prompted discussions about future collaborations. Bulun said, 'I believe music is a universal language — it carries happiness, joy, sadness, and imagination. I would encourage every young person to try learning an instrument or to sing. Music is truly a gift for the soul and one of the most beautiful presents humanity has received: a world filled with wonderful sounds.' (TNN)
Korea Herald
14-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Korea Herald
Ambassador Al-Hamar on 50 years of Qatar-Korea relations and Qatar's cultural diplomacy
The recent performance by the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra in Seoul was more than an evening of music — it was a vivid expression of the deepening cultural dialogue between Qatar and Korea. Held in celebration of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations, the concert struck a symbolic high note in a year filled with cross-cultural engagement. Khalid Ebrahim Al-Hamar, ambassador of the State of Qatar to Korea, described the event as a bridge between two cultures — one that brought the Qatari spirit to Korean audiences not through words or treaties, but through music. 'This performance, presented by the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra, was a channel of communication between peoples,' he said, adding that the concert "offers a glimpse into the development witnessed by the State of Qatar in all fields, especially the cultural field,' he said. The Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra, led by conductor Wilson Ng, took the stage over the weekend with top Korean artists, singer Sumi Jo and pianist Park Jae-hong. Founded in 2008, the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra, comprising 96 musicians from more than 30 countries, has emerged as a central institution in the country's efforts to cultivate and export culture. With a mission to blend Arab musical heritage with international repertoires, the orchestra has become both a national emblem and a diplomatic envoy, the ambassador explained. Its recent performance in Seoul was not only a celebration of Qatar's artistic evolution, but also a testament to the enduring friendship between the two countries, he added. That friendship, once anchored in trade and energy, has steadily expanded into education, tourism and increasingly, the arts, the ambassador said. In recent years, cultural ties have accelerated, with Qatari and Korean institutions hosting exhibitions, musical events and collaborative programs. The orchestra's visit followed a series of cultural initiatives marking the 50th anniversary, including Qatar Day at Hankuk University of Foreign Studies, a translated book on Qatari heritage released in collaboration with the Seoul Metropolitan Library, and a children's art contest co-hosted with the Multicultural Museum. Al-Hamar points to these efforts as part of a broader strategy — one that sees culture as an essential component of diplomacy. Qatar's approach to cultural diplomacy is deeply institutional, built on major investments in museums, heritage preservation and global arts initiatives. Landmark institutions such as the National Museum of Qatar and the Museum of Islamic Art not only reflect the nation's cultural identity but also function as tools of soft power on the world stage, according to the ambassador. One of Qatar's most prominent cultural platforms is the Years of Culture program, which partners annually with another country for a curated season of cultural exchange. Past partnerships have featured Japan, China and Indonesia. Ambassador Al-Hamar expressed strong interest in launching a Qatar-Korea Year of Culture, which would further solidify the foundation laid by events like the recent concert. Looking ahead, Al-Hamar was optimistic about the future of Qatar-Korea cultural relations. 'Qatari-Korean relations can now be described as advanced, solid, and based on mutual interests and benefits, yet open to further development. Although these relations were initially based solely on economics and trade, in recent years they have evolved into comprehensive, complementary relations across various fields, including culture," he said.
Korea Herald
14-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Korea Herald
Qatar Philharmonic makes resonant Korea debut with cultural fusion
Concerts celebrate 50 years of Korea–Qatar ties through cultural harmony The Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra made its long-anticipated Korean debut over the weekend with two performances in Goyang and Seoul, meeting Korean audiences for the first time since its founding in 2008. On Sunday evening, the orchestra -- comprising 96 musicians from more than 30 countries -- took the stage at the National Theater of Korea's Haeoreum Grand Theater. Held in celebration of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Qatar and Korea, the concert was attended by notable guests including acting President Han Duck-soo, former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, former Foreign Minister Park Jin and Herald Media Group CEO Choi Jin-young. The concert, which highlighted the richness that emerges when diverse musical heritages and talent converge on one stage, opened with Rachmaninoff's Piano Concerto No. 2, featuring pianist Park Jae-hong, the first prize winner of the 2021 Busoni Piano Competition and the recipient of four additional awards. Park delivered an absorbing and commanding performance, captivating the audience with his nuanced and powerful interpretation of the Romantic masterpiece. Following the intermission, the orchestra returned to present Dvorak's Symphony No. 9, "From the New World," offering a sweeping conclusion to the main program. 'This program features iconic works from the classical repertoire -- pieces we believe the audience will not only recognize but truly enjoy,' said conductor Wilson Ng. 'It's a celebration, and we wanted the music to reflect that spirit.' Ng, a figure familiar to Korean audiences, previously served as the associate conductor of the Seoul Philharmonic Orchestra from 2019 to 2022. The evening concluded with a surprise encore that introduced the audience to the distinctive musical voice of Qatar. The orchestra performed 'Spirit of Maqam' by Nasser Sahim, the QPO's deputy executive director. A leading Qatari composer, Sahim is known for merging traditional Arab musical modes with modern orchestration, creating contemporary works rooted in heritage. 'Qatari music is steeped in lyrical storytelling and rich rhythmic patterns,' Sahim said in a recent email interview. 'In 'Spirit of Maqam,' I explore traditional modes with modern orchestration to reflect the dynamic nature of our culture. It captures emotional nuance through textures that may be unfamiliar, yet universally moving.' Ng, who conducted the program, also shared his perspective on the unique qualities of Middle Eastern music. 'Like traditional Asian music, Middle Eastern music often uses different tonal systems, such as maqam, rather than Western scales. These elements give it a unique flavor -- just as the pentatonic scale does in Asian traditions. It's distinct and immediately recognizable, and I hope the audience finds it just as fascinating as I do.' Saturday's performance in Goyang offered even more insight into the QPO's roots, featuring three works by contemporary Middle Eastern composers. Among them were 'Borealis' and 'Polaris' by Dana Al Fardan, a prominent Qatari composer and songwriter, both drawn from her album "Tempest." These pieces, infused with cinematic textures and emotional intensity, added a modern voice to the orchestra's program. Commenting on the repertoire, Sahim emphasized the importance of cultural diversity in programming. 'The Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra serves as a cultural bridge, weaving Qatari identity into the global music scene. Our goal is not only to perform but to connect -- to let music carry the essence of our heritage to new audiences. In this context, Korea, with its deep artistic roots and openness to musical dialogue, becomes a perfect stage for this mission,' he remarked. Ng noted that 'the orchestra is in a unique position geographically and artistically to serve as a bridge between cultures. I wish more people and institutions embraced this role, especially in a time when we need more bridges than walls. I'm proud to be part of that mission through music.' Sahim also expressed his hope for future cooperation between the two countries. 'This concert can be a foundation for deeper collaboration -- from composer residencies and educational programs to joint productions,' he said. 'Music has no borders, and I believe both our nations have so much to offer each other artistically. I hope this exchange sparks more creative dialogue between Qatari and Korean artists in the years ahead.' Sunday's event presented by the Goyang Cultural Foundation and the QPO and was supported by the Embassy of the State of Qatar in Korea, Qatar Airways and Herald Media Group.
Korea Herald
07-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Korea Herald
Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra to perform in Korea for first time
Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra to take stage at National Theater of Korea on Sunday The Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra is set to perform in South Korea for the first time on Sunday at the Haeoreum Grand Theater of the National Theater of Korea, bringing an evening full of passion to Seoul. The orchestra's first-ever performance in Korea is expected to serve as a cultural bridge and foster stronger artistic exchange and mutual understanding between the two countries. The event is hosted by the Goyang Cultural Foundation and sponsored by the Embassy of Qatar in Seoul, with the partnership of Herald Media Group, which publish The Korea Herald. Conductor Wilson Ng from Hong Kong and acclaimed pianist Park Jae-hong will perform Sergei Rachmaninoff's Piano Concerto No. 2 in C Minor, Op. 18. The orchestra will also perform Dvorak's Symphony No. 9 "From the New World" and "Slavonic Dances." Established in 2007 with the support of the Qatar Foundation, the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra has gained recognition for weaving Arab music styles with Western classical music. The Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra has since performed at prestigious concert halls in Europe and the Middle East, including the Royal Albert Hall in London, Santa Cecilia Hall in Rome and the Katara Opera House in Doha, Qatar.
