Qatar Foundation (QF) will host a musical evening on January 31st dedicated to the legacy of Sammi Shawwa, a pivotal figure in 20th-century Arab music. The event, titled ‘The Arab Prince of Violin: 60 Years After Sammi Shawwa,’ is part of QF’s ongoing ‘Heart to Heart’ series, which aims to explore and celebrate the rich traditions of Arabic maqam. The performance will take place at the Black Box Theatre in Multaqa, Education City, and will feature prominent musicians and researchers.
The musical tribute will be led by Kuwaiti musician and researcher Dr. Ahmed Al Salhi, alongside musician, composer, researcher, and oud player Dr. Mustafa Said, founder of the Asil Ensemble. Bilal Bitar, a qanun player specializing in the authentic traditions of Arabic maqam, will also participate in the performance, which promises a deep dive into Shawwa’s influential work.
Celebrating the Legacy of Sammi Shawwa and Arabic Maqam
Sammi Shawwa, who passed away in 2014, was renowned for his comprehensive understanding and mastery of the Arabic maqam – a system of melodic modes used in traditional Arab music. He was able to perform and teach the nuances of these modes across the Arab world, from North Africa to the Gulf region. His work also extended to exploring connections between Arabic maqam and musical traditions from other cultures, broadening its appeal and influence.
The ‘Heart to Heart’ series, according to QF officials, is designed to foster appreciation for Arab heritage and artistic expression. It provides a platform for both established and emerging artists to showcase their talent and engage with audiences. This event specifically aims to reintroduce Shawwa’s contributions to a new generation of music lovers.
Beyond the Performance: Workshops and Discussions
The event extends beyond the musical performance itself. Prior to the concert, QF’s Herfah program will conduct a workshop titled ‘Outdoor Structure Geometry’. This workshop will focus on building geometric structures, offering participants a hands-on understanding of the principles of form, space, and proportion found in Islamic art and architecture. This connection highlights the interplay between visual and auditory arts within the broader Arab cultural context.
Following the performance, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in an interactive discussion session with the featured musicians. This session, organized by QF’s BilAraby initiative, will allow the audience to delve deeper into the intricacies of the maqam and learn more about Shawwa’s life and work. BilAraby focuses on promoting the Arabic language and culture through various educational and artistic programs.
The broader context of Arabic music is experiencing a resurgence in interest, fueled by both traditional preservation efforts and contemporary reinterpretations. This renewed focus is evident in increased academic research, the growth of independent music scenes, and the incorporation of Arabic musical elements into global genres. The event at QF reflects this growing trend and aims to contribute to the ongoing dialogue surrounding Arab musical heritage.
QF’s ‘Heart to Heart’ series will continue to explore the world of Arabic maqam in the coming months. In March, the series will present ‘Maqamat of the Ottoman Court with Fikret Karakaya,’ offering a glimpse into the historical influences on Arabic music. April will feature ‘A Journey Through Maqam with Mohammed Antar,’ promising a further exploration of this complex and beautiful musical system. Qatar Foundation has not yet announced a specific end date for the series.
The success of these events will likely depend on audience engagement and the ability to attract both seasoned music enthusiasts and those new to Arabic maqam. Future programming may also incorporate digital elements to broaden accessibility and reach a wider audience. The ongoing evolution of the series and its impact on the preservation and promotion of Arabic musical traditions remain to be seen.