Manama: The Bahrain Philharmonic Orchestra, led by Maestro Dr. Mubarak Najem, is finalizing preparations for the "Beauty of Classical Music" concert scheduled for Friday, May 9, at the Bahrain National Theatre. This event is held to celebrate Europe Day and honour the principles of unity and diversity.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the evening is organized in collaboration with the Delegation of the European Union to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Kingdom of Bahrain, and the Sultanate of Oman, with support from several EU Member States. It also commemorates the 75th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration, a significant proposal that initiated European integration.
The concert will showcase the orchestra's prominence in the region, featuring a carefully selected programme of renowned classical pieces that have fascinated audiences globally. Two guest artists from the European Union will perform: soprano Marika Franchino, who will sing arias by Puccini, and violinist Olga Arribas Quintana, who will play a solo from Mendelssohn's violin concerto.
The programme includes works by Beethoven, Mozart, Bizet, Sibelius, Bart³k, and de Falla, along with a tribute to Fr©d©ric Chopin, symbolizing Poland's current presidency of the Council of the European Union. Established in 2022 by Maestro Dr. Mubarak Najem, the Bahrain Philharmonic Orchestra consists of over 100 musicians and choir members, marking a significant milestone in Bahrain's musical development.