Harmony

Soloists: Sary Khalifé, Cello & Rami Ourabi, Ney

In this landmark performance, Naseer Shamma and Richard Dubugnon are brought together for an evening of encounter, exchange and discovery. Harmony explores what can emerge when Arabic and Western musical traditions meet in conversation.

With Naseer Shamma, a master of the oud whose playing carries memory, heritage and feeling, and the world premiere of Richard Dubugnon’s Double Concerto for Ney and Cello, the programme brings distinctive voices and contrasting musical languages into dialogue, finding connection through a shared artistic experience.

At its heart, this is a celebration of what happens when different perspectives come together,  creating space for curiosity, understanding and discovery. Reflecting the UAE’s belief in the power of culture to bring people closer, the evening explores music as a universal language that can transcend borders and connect us through shared experience.

UAE National Orchestra

The UAE National Orchestra (UAENO) is the official national orchestra of the United Arab Emirates, giving musical expression to the country's identity, heritage and ambition. It is led by Chairperson Her Excellency Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi, Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, alongside Managing Director Sheikha Alia bint Khalid Al Qassimi.

Rooted in heritage and tradition, and open to the world, the Orchestra brings Arabic and Western instruments into one ensemble of 70 musicians, supported by a choir of 30 singers. Its programmes bring established repertoire into conversation with new work, while giving composers and musicians space to shape an orchestral voice that proudly reflects the UAE.

At its heart is the shared experience of live music, inviting audiences of all ages and backgrounds to hear familiar works afresh, discover unexpected sounds and feel the energy of live performance. Its inaugural season brought together original compositions, reimagined classics, and world-renowned artists.

Season Two, Symphony On, carries that sentiment forward. Through new commissions, partnerships, training and mentorship programmes, UAENO is bringing Emirati stories and new sounds to the stage while developing the next generation of artists; so the music plays on for generations.