UAE Philharmonic Orchestra
The UAE Philharmonic Orchestra is an orchestra based in the United Arab Emirates.
After being inactive for several years, the orchestra was relaunched in 2024 by BACKART Production under the baton of conductor Nicolas Mann.[1][2]
Rebranded as "UAE Phil." it became the first orchestra in the UAE to offer a full yearly concert season, performing a diverse repertoire ranging from Baroque masterpieces to 20th-century works.[2][3]
The orchestra is noted for its multicultural ensemble, featuring musicians from 17 different countries, reflecting Dubai's cultural diversity and inclusivity.[2]
History
[edit]The UAE Philharmonic Orchestra was originally founded by Philipp Maier, who served as its first conductor and artistic director.
It was active between 2006 and 2012 in the United Arab Emirates, primarily performing in Dubai.
Initially known as the Dubai Philharmonic Orchestra (DPO), it was renamed in 2007 to reflect its broader representation of musicians from across the UAE.[4]
The UAE Philharmonic Orchestra consisted of around 70 volunteer amateur and professional musicians resident in the UAE, and performed regularly at private events, public concerts and corporate functions.
Its repertory included both European classical music and specially commissioned works influenced by both European and Arabic musical traditions. During its first existence The UAEPO was the only permanent orchestra in the UAE.
Performances in early 2007 were claimed to be well-attended and successful.[5] However, in 2012, Meier resigned and announced the end of the UAEPO, blaming a lack of both public and private sector support.[6][7][8]
Relaunch
[edit]In September 2024, the UAE Philharmonic Orchestra was revived after a 12-year hiatus, with BACKART Production overseeing its relaunch and a new identity under the name "UAE Phil.".[2]
Nicolas Mann was appointed as the orchestra's chief conductor and artistic director, bringing with him extensive international experience, including performances at prominent venues such as the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris and collaborations with Grammy Award-winning artists.[1][3]
The inaugural concert of the re-established UAE Phil took place at the Theatre of Digital Arts (TODA) in Dubai, marking the official beginning of its new concert season. The event was attended by UAE officials, members of the press, and notable cultural figures.[2]
See also
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ a b Rizvi, Husain. "Meet the person behind UAE's first residential orchestra". Khaleej Times. Retrieved 20 September 2024.
- ^ a b c d e "The UAE's first resident Philharmonic Orchestra launches at ToDA". thehuntr.com. Retrieved 17 September 2024.
- ^ a b Team, Arte Lusso (9 September 2024). "ToDA Launches the First UAE-Based Philharmonic Orchestra". Arte & Lusso. Retrieved 17 September 2024.
- ^ "Orchestrating a new musical tradition". The National (Abu Dhabi). 26 July 2008. Retrieved 6 July 2011.
- ^ Jonathan Gadalla (11 April 2007). "Press Release". Arabic Photo Network. Retrieved 9 June 2007.
The Philharmonic Orchestra shows at the new Festival City recorded a huge turnout, indicating a real interest in the classical music market.
- ^ "Philharmonic orchestra ends on sour note". The UAE Today. 8 September 2012. Retrieved 14 September 2023.
- ^ "UAE closes orchestra as robustly funded Qatar Philharmonic celebrates fourth birthday". Doha News. 9 September 2012. Retrieved 14 September 2023.
- ^ "Orchestra bows out of UAE scene". Gulf News. 14 September 2012. Retrieved 14 September 2023.
External links
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