KUWAIT: The National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters (NCCAL) announced the launch of the 24th edition of its International Music Festival. Set to start on November 17, it will feature a tribute ceremony for singer Mohammad Al-Bloushi. In a press conference held at the council’s headquarters, Assistant Secretary-General for Arts at the council and festival president, Musaad Al-Zamil, stated that the festival will run until November 22 and will include various events and activities showcasing different musical genres.
The opening ceremony will be held under the patronage of Minister of Information and Culture, Minister of State for Youth Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi at Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Center. The ceremony to honor Bloushi will include playing his most famous songs, led by Maestro Dr Mohammed Al-Baiijan and other top artists, he added. Zamil emphasized that Bloushi deserves this recognition for his rich artistic career, being a graduate of the Higher Institute of Musical Arts and known for his significant contributions, particularly in the national music genre.
The opening ceremony will also honor several artists who have excelled in academic and research fields related to music, including Dr. Youssef Al-Rashid from Kuwait, artist Hanaa Al-Ashmawi from Egypt, and artist Ibrahim Habib from Bahrain. On the second day of the festival, Omani cellist Maryam Al-Munjiya will perform a mix of Eastern and Western melodies during the "Cello Night,” followed by a seminar highlighting Bloushi’s journey in singing and composing.
The third day, November 19, will feature a dinner for festival guests and a scientific seminar on Arabic singing from local to global perspectives, with participation from researchers and academics in melodies and singing. Zamil noted the council’s role in enhancing artistic appreciation and cultural exchange through music, mentioning a concert titled "Melody from Greece” on November 20, where Greek clarinetist Vassilis will present a selection of folk melodies and world music in a unique style.
He added that the evening of November 21 will take attendees back to a beautiful era with a concert titled "Night of Nagat and Warda,” featuring beloved Eastern songs and melodies performed by renowned artists, conducted by Maestro Dr Ayoub Khader. For the closing ceremony, Zamil stated that graduates of the Higher Institute of Dramatic Arts, known for their achievements in Kuwait’s artistic scene, will present a musical performance featuring orchestral and choral pieces, conducted by Maestro Dr Khaled Nouri.
Entry to the musical events will be available through reservations on the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Centre’s website for a nominal fee. Zamil highlighted the partnerships with cultural institutions that contribute to supporting the festival and providing an exceptional experience for attendees. — KUNA