ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)
His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, has established the UAE National Orchestra as a significant step in the nation’s commitment to the role of the arts in society.
A groundbreaking cultural initiative, with a mission to build the nation’s orchestra on the foundations of Emirati musical heritage, connected across its diverse community and exploring connections with musical traditions from around the world.
Under the leadership of Her Excellency Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi, Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Chairperson of the UAE National Orchestra, the orchestra's efforts will lead the development of the music sector in the country and support promising talents in the field, aiming to strengthen the role of music and the arts as a universal language common to every culture globally – past and present.
Built on the foundations of UAE's musical traditions it will advance its artistic mission connecting with international musical styles, influences and perspectives showcasing Emirati arts and culture to the world.
Overseeing the orchestra is a distinguished board of directors who will guide the UAE National Orchestra, bringing together expertise from various cultural, artistic, and academic fields.
Members of the board include: Her Excellency Sarah bint Youssef Al Amiri, Minister of Education, His Excellency Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, Minister of Culture, His Excellency Mohammed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi, His Excellency Zaki Anwar Nusseibeh, Cultural Adviser to the President of the UAE, His Excellency Mohammed Ahmad Al Murr, Chairman of Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Library Foundation, , Her Excellency Samira Murshid Al Rumaithi, Undersecretary of Presidential Protocol and Strategic Narrative Authority, Her Excellency Huda Alkhamis-Kanoo, Founder of Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Foundation, His Excellency Hamad Abdulla Al Zaabi, Director General of the National Projects Office, His Excellency Ali Obaid Al Hefaiti, Director General of the Fujairah Academy of Fine Arts, Peng Xiao, Chief Executive Officer of G42, Artist Naseer Shamma, Founder of Bait Al Oud & UNESCO Artist for Peace.
Her Excellency Noura bint Mohamed Al Kaabi affirmed that the announcement of the establishment of the UAE National Orchestra underscores the leadership's commitment to developing the arts, recognising their vital role in establishing cultural and humanitarian values, serving as a benchmark for civilisational and human progress, and promoting values of tolerance and coexistence.
Her Excellency Al Kaabi said, "Through the UAE National Orchestra, we aim to enhance our local culture and arts while building bridges of communication with other cultures. The orchestra will be a source of inspiration and an active, influential force in both local and global communities, reaffirming our commitment to supporting creativity and artistic excellence."
At its launch, the UAE National Orchestra announced the opening of auditions for instrumentalists and singers to join this initiative.
Open to musicians of all backgrounds aged 18 and above, the auditions will inspire experienced musicians seeking a forward-looking artistic adventure and will include talent from both Arabic and Western experiences and ensembles.
The audition process will aim to recruit top-tier talent in full-time positions with appropriate competitive compensation, prioritising diversity, inclusivity, and openness to exploring new musical styles, with a strong focus on nurturing Emirati musicians within the UAE's music community.
Musicians who wish to apply should visit www.uaenationalorchestra.ae, review the requirements, and submit their application form with a high-quality audio/video recording of the repertoire as detailed on the website.
Detailed audition guidelines and requirements for each instrument are also available./
Notably, the application deadline is January 26, 2025.
For more information please visit www.uaenationalorchestra.ae