Qatar Symphony premieres to standing ovation

The original orchestral work commissioned by the Qatar Foundation to celebrate the history, development and future of Qatar as a nation was composed by Oud virtuoso and composer Dr. Salem Abdul-Karem, one of the Arab world's greatest living musicians.

Over two thousand guests from around the world attended the performance at a specially constructed venue at the Ritz Carlton Hotel on Sunday, June 1st and Monday, June 2nd.

The first of its kind in the region philharmonic orchestra comprises more than eighty international musicians and follows the classical four-movement symphonic form and blends traditional Qatari motifs into classical European orchestral context.

Qatar Symphony is the tale of the nation, tracing its origins and formation, growth and development and its future in an ever-changing world.

'Music is an immensely powerful and inspiring form of expression and we must not underestimate the important role it plays in society in sustaining cultural traditions and bridging cultures,' expressed Yousef Fakhroo, Head of Marketing Relations and Public Relations at Qatar Foundation. 'The premiere of Qatar Symphony marks the beginning of what we hope will be a musical resurgence in the region, characterized by originality and a synthesis of traditions.'

Fakhroo added that this initiative is a clear demonstration of Qatar Foundation's commitment to progressive education, research and community welfare to build a knowledge-based society.

Following its world premiere, Qatar Symphony is planned to tour Europe, the Americas and Asia performing at international opera houses, expressing Qatar's message to the world of its past, present and future through music.

A CD is expected to be released in the coming three months which will be available in music stores throughout the world.