Musical Bridge Between Kingdoms: “Marvels of Saudi Orchestra” Showcases in Tokyo
The Saudi National Orchestra and Choir are on a global mission to share the beauty of Saudi culture worldwide through music. After captivating audiences in Paris, Mexico City, New York, and London, they will perform in Tokyo.
🇸🇦 الأوركسترا السعودية يواصلون الإبداع، هالمره من طوكيو – اليابان 🇯🇵 بعد نجاحهم الكبير في لندن.
ترقبوا عرض #روائع_الأوركسترا_السعودية اللي بيدمج بين الموسيقى السعودية والكلاسيكية العالمية 🎻🎵📆 الموعد: 22 نوفمبر
⏰ الساعة 2 الظهر
🎥 البث المباشر على @MOC_Music pic.twitter.com/G1RxS2CrSt— نايفكو NAIF (@naifco) November 19, 2024
The “Marvels of Saudi Orchestra” will take place at Tokyo Opera City on Nov. 22. The performance will feature the Saudi National Orchestra and Choir, Japan’s Gagaku Orchestra Imperial Court Music, and the Orchestra Academy of Tokyo College of Music. It will highlight both traditional Saudi and classical Japanese music, with special guest performance by renowned Japanese guitarist Hotei.
Saudi Music Commission CEO Paul Pacifico shared insights into the orchestra’s world tour. He explained the mission had two purposes: showcasing Saudi culture globally and demonstrating how Saudi music can be embraced internationally. “Most people haven’t heard Saudi music, so this is a new experience,” he said. The second goal is to show Saudi citizens how their culture can be accepted on the world stage, inspiring pride.
A Tribute to Saudi and Japanese Traditions
Composed by Saudi maestro Rami Bashih and arranged with Japanese maestro Hirofumi Yoshida, the Tokyo concert will celebrate both Saudi and Japanese musical traditions. Yoshida hopes this collaboration will strengthen cultural ties. “This concert offers the audience a fresh perspective by merging two distinct musical cultures,” Yoshida said.
The performance will contrast Saudi Arabia’s traditional music with Japan’s gagaku, an ancient court music. The concert will conclude with a joint performance by musicians from both countries, symbolizing cultural harmony.
Overcoming Distance and Seamless Rehearsals
Despite the distance, both orchestras held online rehearsals. Yoshida acknowledged the challenges of remote collaboration but praised the success of online meetings. “We’ve managed to overcome the distance and foster meaningful cooperation,” he said.
Yoshida has previously led the first full Japanese orchestra performance in Saudi Arabia in 2017. Reflecting on the experience, he recalled the enthusiasm of Saudi youth. “I became certain that culture and the arts would flourish in Saudi Arabia,” he said.
A Successful Global Tour
Pacifico expressed excitement about the orchestra’s ongoing tour. “Every city has exceeded our expectations. The musicians blend seamlessly, and the audiences are welcoming and culturally curious,” he said. He emphasized the personal connections made during each performance. “Marvels of Saudi Orchestra” connects people through music, and that’s what surprises and delights me each time,” he concluded.
