On Friday, May 24, 2024, the 27th edition of the Fez Festival of World Music kicked off with an exceptional opening ceremony titled “Zeryab and the Fifth String”.
Her Royal Highness Princess Lalla Hasnaa graced the opening ceremony held under the high patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, giving it a special elegance and deep cultural symbolism. Under the slogan “Longing for the spirit of Andalusia”, this edition, which runs until June 1, will feature a special celebration of Spain as the guest of honor.
A musical journey through time
The inaugural concert, titled “Zeryab or the Fifth String,” was a captivating musical journey through the inspirations of Andalusian music, moving between heaven and earth, mountains and palaces, with the participation of renowned artists from around the world.
Inspired by the worlds of philosophy and music
The concert was inspired by the rich worlds of Arabic-Andalusian music, specifically the legacy of ancient philosophers such as Ferdowsi and al-Kindi, who in turn were inspired by the ideas of Pythagoras and Plato.
Zeryab: Tunes that embrace civilizations
The melodies of the Kurdish-born poet, singer and musician, Abulhasan Ali ibn Nafi, known as “Zaryab” (black bird), took the audience on a magical journey through time and space, from the sky and mountains to the Umayyad Palace of Emir Abdulrahman II in Cordoba.
Artists from various countries such as Uzbekistan, Iran, Syria, India, Spain, Egypt, Italy, Armenia, France and Morocco participated in this musical journey, embodying the rich cultural diversity that characterized the Andalusian civilization.
The opening evening featured a host of exceptional musical performances by renowned artists, including Rabih Kati, Sanaa Marhati, Smadj, Loop Barrow, the Juan Carmona Quartet, and the Maddalena Group.
A festival that promotes cultural dialog
Fez World Music Festival is an important cultural event that contributes to promoting dialogue between cultures and civilizations. Through its diverse musical performances, the festival aims to introduce the audience to the richness of Arabic-Andalusian music and highlight its role in communicating between peoples.
The Fez Festival of Ancient World Music is a musical journey through time and space, and an invitation to celebrate the spirit of Andalusia and its ancient history.
Source : Fez News Media