The Saudi National Orchestra and Choir delivered a remarkable performance titled "Beauty and Grace" at the Islamic Arts Biennale in Jeddah, receiving high praise for their flawless execution. A group of seventy talented musicians and singers showcased a captivating blend of Islamic chants, instrumental compositions, and traditional Saudi musical pieces. The concert, organized by the Saudi Music Commission, was carefully curated to harmonize with the artistic displays at the Western Hajj Terminal venue.
Aya Al-Bakree, CEO of the Diriyah Biennale Foundation, expressed her gratitude towards the Ministry of Culture's Music Commission for facilitating this significant collaboration. The performance served as part of the foundation's Creative Experiences public programming series, catering to audiences of all ages. It also served as a fitting conclusion to the extraordinary Islamic Arts Biennale, an event dedicated to celebrating exceptional Saudi Arabian talent and artistic expression on a global stage.
The organizers of the event aimed to emphasize the intrinsic connection between music and visual art, shedding light on the cultural significance of music both locally and internationally. Through the inclusion of national compositions that represent the Kingdom's rich heritage, they celebrated the fusion of music and art.
Donya Abdulhadi, senior adviser at the Diriyah Biennale Foundation, highlighted to Arab News the groundbreaking nature of the Islamic Arts Biennale, as it was the first of its kind dedicated to Islamic arts in history. The event has garnered recognition as one of Saudi Arabia's most significant cultural efforts, introducing local talent to a global audience. Saudi Arabia's contribution to the arts on a global scale was underscored by the partnership with the Music Commission in hosting the Saudi Orchestra, which served as a sign of ongoing collaboration within the nation's cultural environment.
Mohammed Ghani, a participant who was accompanied by his family, expressed his delight in Saudi traditional music and acknowledged the value of venues like this in fostering young people's excitement and determining the course of the nation's music scene.
The event, hosted by the Diriyah Biennale Foundation, concluded on Tuesday, having showcased the works of 60 Saudi and international artists, both renowned and up-and-coming. The exhibition featured over 60 new commissions and 280 historical artifacts, solidifying its status as a prominent contemporary arts and culture event.
