ABU DHABI (WAM)

The "Andalusia: History and Civilisation" initiative concluded its artistic programme with an enthralling musical concert titled 'Andalusian Nights: Guitar and Arabic Music.'

The concert was performed by the internationally acclaimed guitarist Antonio Rai and oud player Sadiq Jaafar, which drew a remarkable crowd of Al-Andalusian art enthusiasts.

The initiative featured a series of art and musical events and exhibitions showcasing a variety of artworks and heritage collections. The initiative's primary objective is to introduce the audience to the rich tapestry of Arab-Andalusian heritage, while promoting cross-cultural understanding.

The series of musical programmes leading up to the captivating 'Andalusian Nights: Guitar and Arabic Music' concert at the Emirates Palace all served a key role in upholding the cultural heritage and promoting the values of tolerance and coexistence.

The initiative's artistic activities that continued over several months included a series of musical events, including the 'Cordoba Nights,' an enchanting symphonic performance by a 50-member orchestra, skilfully led by the world-renowned maestro Enma Shara. The event was held on 8th October 2023 at the Emirates Palace Auditorium in Abu Dhabi, captivating audiences with the beauty of Spanish symphonies that bear the soul of Andalusian melodies.

The 'Ya Zaman al Wasl bil Andalusi' evening, which honoured Andalusian Muwashahat, was another highlight. This performance, which took place on 12th November 12 2023, at the Emirates Palace Theatre, included a large choir of male and female singers accompanied by a talented group of musicians and vocalists directed by orchestra conductor Ghada Harb.

Additionally, the initiative featured a memorable 'Flamenco Night,' which was hosted on 20th December 2023 by the internationally acclaimed performer Anna Morales, renowned for her proficiency in the traditional Spanish art form.

Mohammed Al Murr, Chairman of the 'Andalusia: History and Civilisation' Initiative Committee, expressed his delight in the successful conclusion of the initiative's art programmes. He emphasised how the art events in Abu Dhabi represented the convergence of Arab and Spanish cultures, showcasing Andalusia's diverse artistic traditions.

He added, "The initiative was launched based on the UAE's strong commitment to advancing the values of tolerance, openness, coexistence, and cultural exchange. The Andalusian civilisation is an authentic embodiment of these values, which the UAE aims to solidify. The initiative's line-up of outstanding performances and artistic events seamlessly blended the Arab and Spanish works of art in an Andalusian fusion and served as the ideal forum to highlight these humanistic principles."

The initiative has been hosting various art and cultural events over the past few months to foster cross-cultural awareness and artistic exchange between the Arab world and Spain. A major highlight of the initiative was the cultural seminar organised in the Spanish capital last year, along with the recently concluded art programs.

As part of the initiative, the 'Art Exhibition' will continue to take place at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre, while the second cultural seminar will be held in the UAE in February.

The initiative is a joint cultural project between the UAE and Spain to showcase the rich Andalusian heritage and celebrate its accomplishments.