Latest news with #QatarPhilharmonicOrchestra
Qatar Tribune
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Qatar Tribune
Years of Culture celebrates Argentina and Chile with a season of cultural exchange
Tribune News Network Doha The Years of Culture initiative has announced an exciting line-up of fall programmes that will showcase the cultural landscapes of Argentina and Chile to audiences in Qatar. This season invites communities to explore fresh connections through art, literature, design, film, music, hospitality, trade and culinary experiences, encouraging dialogue and collaboration across cultures. 'Our fall season with Argentina and Chile is about sharing stories, ideas and traditions that bring people closer together. We're proud to create spaces where artists, families and communities can connect, learn and celebrate what makes each culture unique,' Years of Culture said in a statement. SEPTEMBER A Musical Encounter: Sounds of Qatar and Argentina (QNCC):September 14. Organiser: Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra. As part of Qatar Museums' Year of Culture with Argentina and Chile, the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra will present a special preview performance in Doha ahead of its upcoming concert at the world-renowned Teatro Colón in Buenos Aires on September 17. This cross-cultural programme, conducted by Argentine maestro Enrique Diemecke, celebrates the rich musical dialogue between Qatar and Latin America. The evening features Astor Piazzolla's iconic Concerto for Bandoneón 'Aconcagua,' performed by acclaimed soloist Victor Hugo Villena, as well as works by celebrated Argentine composers Esteban Benzecry and Alberto Ginastera. Representing Qatar's contemporary music scene, the Philharmonic will perform compositions by Dana Alfardan and Nasser Sahim, blending cinematic textures with the spirit of traditional Arabic music. This concert offers Doha audiences a unique opportunity to experience the programme that will represent Qatar on one of the world's greatest stages. Philharmonic at the Library - 'Vuelvo al sur' - A Musical Journey through Argentina and Chile; September 25. A curated musical evening will celebrate the lively sounds of Argentina and Chile. Through performances, storytelling and visuals, the concert will blend tango, folk, nueva canción and Andean rhythms to explore themes of memory, identity and migration. Make With Me: Argentina Edition; 30 September 2025; Organiser: Qatar National Library A hands-on creative session at Qatar National Library will guide children and families in exploring Argentinian culture through crafts and artmaking. OCTOBER Qatar Reads Theme Launch; 8 October 2025; Organiser: Qatar Reads, an initiative of Qatar National Library Qatar Reads will launch this year's focus on Argentina at a home of one of its participating families, featuring the launch of the book 'Maryam in Argentina' and a Q&A with Argentina's Ambassador to Qatar. Qatar Reads Years of Culture Month; Month of October 2025; Organiser: Qatar Reads, an initiative of Qatar National Library The Family Reading Program will roll out an Argentina-themed edition as part of the Year of Culture 2025. Over 1,500 children across Qatar will receive curated Arabic and English book packages featuring activity sheets, comics and creative content. Developed in cooperation with the Argentinian Embassy, the initiative promotes cultural understanding and curiosity through storytelling. JEDARIART Cycling Track Activation; 8-21 October 2025; Organiser: Qatar Museums Public Art Department Chilean muralist Daniel Marceli and Argentinian artist Pablo Harymbat will transform the Qatar Olympic Cycling Track tunnels into an outdoor gallery celebrating indigenous cultures and Latin American visual storytelling. Thanks to the partnership with Ashghal and Qatar Museums' Public Art department, this will be the second annual collaboration that brings international artists from Years of Culture partner countries to activate the Qatar Olympic Cycling Track. Make with Me: Chile Edition; 21 October 2025; Organiser: Qatar National Library Inspired by Chilean culture, Qatar National Library will welcome attendees for a craft and art making workshop. Tourism and Hospitality Engagement through the Lens of Culture; 28-30 October 2025; Organiser: Ministry of Commerce and Industry The Years of Culture Initiative, in collaboration with Qatar's Ministry of Commerce and Industry, will organise a robust cultural and business programme at Hospitality Qatar 2025. Philharmonic at the Library: Cordillera Sonora - Sound of the Mountains; 29 October 2025; Organiser: Qatar National Library and Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra will present Cordillera Sonora – Sound of the Mountains at Qatar National Library. This chamber concert celebrates Chile's musical heritage and blends traditional Andean sounds with classical arrangements to evoke the spirit and rhythms of South America's mountain landscapes. Chile Storytime: When the Moai Walked; 30 October 2025; Organiser: Qatar National Library Qatar National Library will host a storytelling and craft session inspired by the oral traditions of Rapa Nui (Easter Island, Chile). Led by guest storyteller Meherio Rapu, the workshop is designed for children aged 5 to 7, offering an engaging introduction to Chilean culture through tales and hands-on creativity. NOVEMBER Qatar Reads Cultural Event; 1 November 2025; Organiser: Qatar Reads, an initiative of Qatar National Library Qatar Reads and the National Museum of Qatar will host a cultural event marking the close of the October Years of Culture programme. The celebration will welcome 100 children for hands-on activities inspired by Argentinian heritage, with the Argentinian ambassador joining the opening segment. Sabor Argentino: Flavours of Argentina; November dates to be announced later; Organiser: Qatar National Library Qatar National Library will welcome guests to a special event featuring authentic Argentinian cuisine. A delicious selection of Argentinian dishes will be available at stalls located at the outdoor area next to the Library entrance. Sabor Chileno: Flavours of Chile; November dates to be announced later; Organiser: Qatar National Library Qatar National Library will welcome guests to a special event featuring authentic Chilean cuisine. A delicious selection of Chilean dishes will be at the outdoor area next to the Library entrance. Take & Make: Argentina Edition; 13 November 2025; Organiser: Qatar National Library Qatar National Library will host a workshop where participants will create miniature guitars inspired by Argentinian musical heritage. Argentina Storytime: Manuelita, Where Are You Going?; 15 November 2025; Organiser: Qatar National Library Qatar National Library will offer a storytelling and creative workshop inspired by María Elena Walsh, the beloved Argentine author of children's stories and poems. The event will explore her classic book Canciones para Mirar and the popular story Manuelita, Where Are You Going?. Children will experience the magic of stories and characters through a short poem that sparks curiosity and a love for Spanish literature. The workshop includes making a character passport, where kids can add stamps representing the places the character visited as well as their own home countries. Take & Make: Chile Edition; 20 November 2025; Organiser: Qatar National Library The Chilean edition of Take & Make at Qatar National Library will feature a craft session exploring the beauty of Chilean symbolism through patterns in spired by Mapuche GUEMIL. Flavour of Chile: Culture on a Plate; 20 November 2025; Organiser: Qatar National Library Join Qatar National Library on a culinary journey with award-winning Chilean Chef Francisco Araya, whose international career spans six continents and over 50 outlets. Discover the unique flavours, ingredients, and stories behind Chile's food culture in this special event celebrating the variety of Chilean gastronomy. Doha Film Festival: Made in Argentina/Chile Showcase; 20-28 November 2025; Organiser: Doha Film Institute The Doha Film Festival will spotlight emerging filmmakers from Argentina and Chile in a Made in Argentina/Chile showcase. Youth judges from both countries will join the Ajyal Youth Jury Exchange, promoting cross-cultural storytelling through film. M7 Retail Pop-Up; 21-25 November 2025; Organiser: Qatar Museums M7 Creative Hub M7 will host a retail pop-up featuring designs from YoC partner countries, offering audiences the chance to explore and purchase contemporary pieces while engaging with the designers behind them. For updates, follow Years of Culture on social media or visit the website at
ILoveQatar.net
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- ILoveQatar.net
Years of Culture unveils Fall 2025 line-up of experiences showcasing Argentina & Chile in Qatar
The Years of Culture initiative announced an exciting line-up of fall programmes that will showcase the cultural landscapes of Argentina and Chile to audiences in Qatar. This season invites communities to explore fresh connections through art, literature, design, film, music, hospitality, trade and culinary experiences, encouraging dialogue and collaboration across cultures. 'Our fall season with Argentina and Chile is about sharing stories, ideas and traditions that bring people closer together. We're proud to create spaces where artists, families and communities can connect, learn and celebrate what makes each culture unique,' Years of Culture said in a statement. SEPTEMBER A Musical Encounter: Sounds of Qatar and Argentina (QNCC) 14 September 2025 Organiser: Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra As part of Qatar Museums' Year of Culture with Argentina and Chile, the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra will present a special preview performance in Doha ahead of its upcoming concert at the world-renowned Teatro Colón in Buenos Aires on 17 September. This cross-cultural programme, conducted by Argentine maestro Enrique Diemecke, celebrates the rich musical dialogue between Qatar and Latin America. The evening features Astor Piazzolla's iconic Concerto for Bandoneón 'Aconcagua,' performed by acclaimed soloist Victor Hugo Villena, as well as works by celebrated Argentine composers Esteban Benzecry and Alberto Ginastera. Representing Qatar's contemporary music scene, the Philharmonic will perform compositions by Dana Alfardan and Nasser Sahim, blending cinematic textures with the spirit of traditional Arabic music. This concert offers Doha audiences a unique opportunity to experience the programme that will represent Qatar on one of the world's greatest stages. Philharmonic at the Library - 'Vuelvo al sur' - A Musical Journey Through Argentina and Chile 25 September 2025 Organiser: Qatar National Library and Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra A curated musical evening will celebrate the lively sounds of Argentina and Chile. Through performances, storytelling and visuals, the concert will blend tango, folk, nueva canción and Andean rhythms to explore themes of memory, identity and migration. Make With Me: Argentina Edition 30 September 2025 Organiser: Qatar National Library A hands-on creative session at Qatar National Library will guide children and families in exploring Argentinian culture through crafts and artmaking. OCTOBER Qatar Reads Theme Launch 8 October 2025 Organiser: Qatar Reads, an initiative of Qatar National Library Qatar Reads will launch this year's focus on Argentina at a home of one of its participating families, featuring the launch of the book 'Maryam in Argentina' and a Q&A with Argentina's Ambassador to Qatar. The Family Reading Program will roll out an Argentina-themed edition as part of the Year of Culture 2025. Over 1,500 children across Qatar will receive curated Arabic and English book packages featuring activity sheets, comics and creative content. Developed in cooperation with the Argentinian Embassy, the initiative promotes cultural understanding and curiosity through storytelling. JEDARIART Cycling Track Activation 8-21 October 2025 Organiser: Qatar Museums Public Art Department Chilean muralist Daniel Marceli and Argentinian artist Pablo Harymbat will transform the Qatar Olympic Cycling Track tunnels into an outdoor gallery celebrating indigenous cultures and Latin American visual storytelling. Thanks to the partnership with Ashghal and Qatar Museums' Public Art department, this will be the second annual collaboration that brings international artists from Years of Culture partner countries to activate the Qatar Olympic Cycling Track. Make with Me: Chile Edition 21 October 2025 Organiser: Qatar National Library Inspired by Chilean culture, Qatar National Library will welcome attendees for a craft and art making workshop. Tourism and Hospitality Engagement Through the Lens of Culture 28-30 October 2025 Organiser: Ministry of Commerce and Industry The Years of Culture Initiative, in collaboration with Qatar's Ministry of Commerce and Industry, will organise a robust cultural and business programme at Hospitality Qatar 2025. Philharmonic at the Library: Cordillera Sonora - Sound of the Mountains 29 October 2025 Organiser: Qatar National Library and Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra will present Cordillera Sonora – Sound of the Mountains at Qatar National Library. This chamber concert celebrates Chile's musical heritage and blends traditional Andean sounds with classical arrangements to evoke the spirit and rhythms of South America's mountain landscapes. Chile Storytime: When the Moai Walked 30 October 2025 Organiser: Qatar National Library Qatar National Library will host a storytelling and craft session inspired by the oral traditions of Rapa Nui (Easter Island, Chile). Led by guest storyteller Meherio Rapu, the workshop is designed for children aged 5 to 7, offering an engaging introduction to Chilean culture through tales and hands-on creativity. NOVEMBER Qatar Reads Cultural Event 1 November 2025 Organiser: Qatar Reads, an initiative of Qatar National Library Qatar Reads and the National Museum of Qatar will host a cultural event marking the close of the October Years of Culture programme. The celebration will welcome 100 children for hands-on activities inspired by Argentinian heritage, with the Argentinian ambassador joining the opening segment. Sabor Argentino: Flavors of Argentina November dates to be announced later Organiser: Qatar National Library Qatar National Library will welcome guests to a special event featuring authentic Argentinian cuisine. A delicious selection of Argentinian dishes will be available at stalls located at the outdoor area next to the Library entrance. Sabor Chileno: Flavors of Chile November dates to be announced later Organiser: Qatar National Library Qatar National Library will welcome guests to a special event featuring authentic Chilean cuisine. A delicious selection of Chilean dishes will be at the outdoor area next to the Library entrance. Take & Make: Argentina Edition 13 November 2025 Organiser: Qatar National Library Qatar National Library will host a workshop where participants will create miniature guitars inspired by Argentinian musical heritage. Argentina Storytime: Manuelita, Where Are You Going? 15 November 2025 Organiser: Qatar National Library Qatar National Library will offer a storytelling and creative workshop inspired by María Elena Walsh, the beloved Argentine author of children's stories and poems. The event will explore her classic book Canciones para Mirar and the popular story Manuelita, Where Are You Going?. Children will experience the magic of stories and characters through a short poem that sparks curiosity and a love for Spanish literature. The workshop includes making a character passport, where kids can add stamps representing the places the character visited as well as their own home countries. Take & Make: Chile Edition 20 November 2025 Organiser: Qatar National Library The Chilean edition of Take & Make at Qatar National Library will feature a craft session exploring the beauty of Chilean symbolism through patterns inspired by Mapuche GUEMIL. Flavor of Chile: Culture on a Plate 20 November 2025 Organiser: Qatar National Library Join Qatar National Library on a culinary journey with award-winning Chilean Chef Francisco Araya, whose international career spans six continents and over 50 outlets. Discover the unique flavours, ingredients, and stories behind Chile's food culture in this special event celebrating the variety of Chilean gastronomy. Doha Film Festival: Made in Argentina/Chile Showcase 20-28 November 2025 Organiser: Doha Film Institute The Doha Film Festival will spotlight emerging filmmakers from Argentina and Chile in a Made in Argentina/Chile showcase. Youth judges from both countries will join the Ajyal Youth Jury Exchange, promoting cross-cultural storytelling through film. M7 Retail Pop-Up 21-25 November 2025 Organiser: Qatar Museums M7 Creative Hub M7 will host a retail pop-up featuring designs from YoC partner countries, offering audiences the chance to explore and purchase contemporary pieces while engaging with the designers behind them. M7 Makers Space Takeover 21 November – 5 December 2025 Organiser: Qatar Museums M7 Creative Hub The Makers Space Takeover will feature one of the YoC designers from the pop-up, who will take over M7's Makers Space to develop a small-scale project. Spotlight on Chilean Innovators at WISE 24-25 November 2025 Organiser: World Innovation Summit for Education, Qatar Foundation The World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE) will host Chilean thought leaders Ana Maria Raad, founder of Reimagina Foundation, one of the Wise Prize Finalists, and Javier González, co-founder of Summa, the Laboratory of Education Research and Innovation for Latin America and the Caribbean. They will share innovative educational approaches and their impact on learning experiences across Latin America. DECEMBER World Wide Walls Doha 3-9 December 2025 Organiser: Qatar Museums, Public Art Department The World Wide Walls Doha initiative will bring Chilean street artist Posh del Futuro and Argentinian muralist Animalitoland to Al Aziziyah neighbourhood of Doha, where they will add striking murals to the local landscape. This collaborative project celebrates community-driven public art and global storytelling. Autorretrao by Gabriel Chaile at Mathaf From 18 December 2025 Organiser: Qatar Museums, Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art and Public Art Department As part of Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art's anniversary celebrations, Argentinian artist Gabriel Chaile's clay sculpture Autorretrato will be on display in December. Drawing from the formal and material language of Indigenous communities in northeast Argentina, Chaile creates a larger-than-life sculpture blending abstracted human features and traditional earth ware. Chaile, who is of Afro-Arab descent, brings a layered understanding of belonging and diaspora to his artistic practice. His presence at Mathaf reflects the museum's mission to amplify Arab voices in global contemporary art and to explore the transnational connections that define Arab identity today. Cinema Under the Stars December 2025 Organiser: Doha Film Institute The Doha Film Institute will host a selection of family-friendly titles from Chile and Argentina in an open-air setting. A pioneering Football for Development collaboration with Club Deportivo Palestino December, 2025 Organiser: Generation Amazing Foundation Generation Amazing Foundation (GA) will host a cultural and sport-based exchange initiative centered around Football for Development, engaging Club Deportivo Palestino (CDP) from Chile. This initiative will leverage on football's universal appeal to foster cultural understanding, social inclusion, and community development. The engagement will include friendly football matches in collaboration with the Qatar Stars League (QSL), community engagement and cultural exchange initiatives with the Gazan residents in Qatar and screening of the Chasing Dreams docuseries. The Years of Culture initiative continues to champion meaningful connections between Qatar and its partner nations through carefully curated programmes that celebrate shared heritage, promote new ideas and inspire communities to come together. By opening doors to dialogue, creative expression and hands-on collaboration, Years of Culture strengthens mutual understanding and respect that extends far beyond a single season or country. For updates, follow Years of Culture on social media or visit the website at
Arab News
10-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Arab News
Qatar's cultural diplomacy as a global platform
As Qatar's 'Years of Culture' initiative marks its 15th partnership in 2025 — partnering with two countries, Argentina and Chile, in a single year for the first time — the program's evolution reflects a broader shift in how the nation views culture as a form of international exchange. Initially a bilateral initiative designed to introduce the world to Qatar in the lead-up to the 2022 FIFA World Cup — the first ever held in the Arab world — Years of Culture has grown into a major pillar of Qatar's cultural diplomacy. Today, the initiative embodies a global outlook that bridges cultures, fosters long-term relationships and generates dialogue across disciplines. What began as a means to welcome the world to the Arab region's first World Cup has evolved into a dynamic framework for international collaboration. From street art in Sao Paulo to film workshops in Tangier, from Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra concerts to permanent public art installations, the program illustrates how culture can forge lasting connections. These include public art, participation in Qatar's key economic forums and trade fairs, and social development initiatives. The acclaimed 'On the Move' exhibition, first presented during the Qatar-Middle East, North Africa and South Asia region 2022 Year of Culture, was later showcased in China — a legacy partner from the Qatar-China 2016 Year of Culture. Likewise, Paris-based Moroccan glass artist Sara Ouhaddou, who first collaborated with Qatar as part of 'Our World is Burning' at the Palais de Tokyo in Paris for the Qatar-France 2020 Year of Culture, later participated in the 'Qatar | Morocco: Crafting Design Futures' residency as part of the Qatar-Morocco 2024 Year of Culture. Several major national initiatives have emerged from the relationships forged during earlier Years of Culture. Lolwah Al Khater Several major national initiatives have also emerged from the relationships forged during earlier Years of Culture. Most recently, Qatar and France announced a comprehensive memorandum of understanding that builds on the foundations laid during Qatar-France 2020. This wide-ranging agreement focuses on capacity building, collaborative exhibitions, professional training, joint research and digitization — demonstrating the enduring impact of cultural exchange. Qatar's approach is distinctive in how it intertwines formal diplomacy with grassroots engagement. Cultural diplomacy in Qatar extends beyond formal institutions. While embassies and cultural ministries play key roles, contributions also come from chefs, archaeologists, economists, volunteers and students. Programming includes high-profile museum exhibitions — such as this year's 'LATINOAMERICANO,' co-curated by MALBA, the Museum of Latin American Art of Buenos Aires, and Qatar Museums — as well as community workshops, library exchanges, trade fairs and initiatives grounded in social development. The transformative impact of the initiative is strengthened by its decentralized and collaborative structure. Each cultural year is co-developed with the partner country, encouraging mutual ownership and cultural authenticity. Over time, this has produced a robust network of connections that organizers now draw upon to create multicountry programming. In 2024, for example, the National Museum of Qatar hosted a fashion exhibition spotlighting Moroccan designer Mohammed Benchellal, whose collection was produced using materials found in Doha's car shops and created at the Liwan Design Studios and Labs. The transformative impact of the initiative is strengthened by its decentralized and collaborative structure. Lolwah Al Khater This is an initiative that is well-suited to today's interconnected world — and to a generation of young people who come from multicultural backgrounds, travel more freely than ever before and embrace opportunities for cultural exploration and exchange. The layering of cultural years has also allowed the initiative to deepen thematically. Today, topics such as environmental storytelling, youth engagement and design futures are explored through joint residencies, academic symposia and museum exhibitions. Yet Qatar's broader vision for global engagement remains central. As it shapes its post-World Cup identity, Qatar has embraced cultural diplomacy as a vital expression of its international role — rooted in dialogue and intellectual exchange. For participants, particularly creatives from the Global South, Years of Culture offers a rare platform for visibility, resources and mutual learning. It is not about exporting Qatari culture or importing others. It is about rewriting how culture can move — collaboratively, respectfully and without hierarchy. This ethos is exemplified by the contemporary Qatari art exhibitions that travel to former partner countries such as Germany, China and Russia, showcasing the work of young Qatari artists. Once seen as a rising player on the global cultural scene, Qatar is now establishing itself as a hub of ideas, people, perspectives and possibilities. In the years ahead, Years of Culture may shift from a model of annual partnerships to one of ongoing, intersecting global dialogues — born in Doha but resonating far beyond.
Web Release
04-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Web Release
Composer Omar Rahbany Unveils Lubnaniyat: A Groundbreaking Musical Statement on Lebanon
Drawing from Lebanon's most iconic musical legacy and reshaping it for a new era, composer and multidisciplinary artist Omar Rahbany is turning heads with Lubnaniyat; a bold, touring musical project that reawakens the Lebanese spirit through orchestral storytelling and contemporary arrangement, amid renewed hopes for a national rebirth. Rooted in the nation's rich musical heritage yet reinterpreted with modern orchestration, Lubnaniyat is a journey through Lebanon's collective memory, a sonic retelling of identity and belonging. With sweeping tapestries, cross-cultural influences, and immersive visual elements, the project aims to capture the music of Lebanon's past and the spirit of its future. The innovative concept, comprising of a symphonic orchestra blended with a Lebanese Arabic ensemble and choir, took its first step with a breathtaking performance in Doha last month. Held at the Qatar National Convention Centre, the concert saw Rahbany take to the stage alongside the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra to present powerful arrangements of iconic Lebanese songs alongside his own compositions; reimagined with his signature blend of orchestral depth, contemporary rhythm, and cinematic storytelling. The show marked the beginning of Lubnaniyat's wider journey as a touring project. At the helm will be Rahbani 3.0, the multidisciplinary creative house co-founded by Omar and filmmaker Karim Rahbani, dedicated to bridging music, film, and narration. Reflecting on the project, Rahbany said: 'Just as artists in the Renaissance looked back to classical antiquity and Greco-Roman humanist ideals, Lubnaniyat offers a renewed reflection on the pioneers who shaped Lebanon's musical and cultural identity. But at its core, it is a diplomatic statement in itself: while Lebanon works to revive its place on the international stage, music, art, and culture emerge as its true ambassadors, carrying the nation's voice, identity, and resilience to the world.' Dividing the orchestra into distinct sections reflects Lebanon's ongoing cultural fusion, Western European symphonic tradition, Afro American jazz brass and grooves, and a Lebanese-Arabic ensemble representing the region's rich Middle Eastern roots, Lubnaniyat is Omar Rahbany's way of carrying Lebanon's most celebrated musical inheritance into a new era, connecting generations. Through Rahbani 3.0, Omar is leading a new wave of artistic projects that blur the lines between stage and screen, music and motion. Rahbani 3.0 is committed to exporting Lebanese artistry to the world, starting with Lubnaniyat, now poised for further international performances.
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.
