Qatari Song Festival delights audience

The three-day Qatari Song Festival, which opened at Qatar National Theatre yesterday, captivated the capacity audience.

The event was held under the patronage and in the presence of HE the Minister of Culture and Sports Salah bin Ghanem al-Ali.Noted Qatari singers, musicians and songwriters, including Ali al-Rashid, Fahad al-Kubaisi, Mansour al-Mohannadi, Hashim al-Yafi, Nasser al-Kubaisi, Khalid al-Dalwan, Nasser Shim, Ghanem Shahin, Abdulrazaq al-Dahi, and Amal Mohamed are participating.The event under the management of the ministry’s Music Affairs Centre was introduced by Qatari TV and radio presenter Dr Ilham al-Bader.The occasion saw the screening of a documentary on Qatari heritage.Fifteen new songs were performed by Qatari singers, with the participation of the festival guests, Kuwaiti poet Bader Boursali, Saudi poet Dr Salah al-Shadi, and Saudi composer Nasser Salah, who wrote the musical score of Aisa al-Kubaisi's new song.The orchestra was led by Qatari maestro Dr Ahmad Himdan and accompanied by 40 musicians from around the world.Spectators from different age groups packed the theatre, all of whom were appreciative of the efforts of the ministry to organise the festival to encourage Qatari musical innovation and promising talents.The night was infused with graceful music which underscored the skill and potential of local singers.Some new songs were also staged for the first time on the first night of the festival.The event opened with the slogan *Ancestral Meadows: A Matter of Trust, the slogan of Qatar National Day 2021 celebrations, and concluded with a group song expressing love for Qatar and its leadership, and the various achievements of the country.During most of the songs, whose themes varied between folk, romantic, traditional, patriotism and others, the audience actively interacted with the singers and cheered for more The accompanying music reflected local tastes and tunes featuring distinctive GCC and Qatari melodies and percussion, creating an atmosphere of joy and enthusiasm among the audience.It was clear that the audience was immensely taken in by the local tunes and the soulful voices got them to cheer on with zeal.The event was preceded by extensive preparations and rehearsals to produce a splendid night, and the theatre was decorated to reflect the identity and achievements of the country.Models of the National Museum of Qatar were placed in various parts of the venue.The event is an opportunity for talented Qatari singers and musicians to showcase their skill and develop their ability.The audience appreciated the festival, stressing that it was an exceptional, entertaining event.Presenter al-Bader stressed that “Qatari singing is an expression of the deep conscience of the citizens and a true interpretation of their living conditions, hopes and national love”.In a gesture from the organising committee, Qatari singers Ibrahim Ali, Mohamed Joulou, and Abdulrazaq al Dahi, were honoured yesterday.