Abu Dhabi Classics captivates audience with 'Journey of Emotions' at the opening gala of the music season

Oscar-winning British actor Jeremy Irons was host for the evening and added yet even more colour to this work of art. Irons' narrative traced musical paths, introducing a collection of international artists who jointly brought the stage to life with emotions.

The Gala was a sellout and no doubt a huge success and perfectly set the right tone for Abu Dhabi Classics, which is set to continue until May 2009. During the evening, members of the audience were entertained not only by the music itself, but also by an exploration of the medium by Irons as he illustrated the unique benefits of a message that can be understood without words.

The event was attended by H.E. Dr. Zaki Anwar Nusseibeh, Vice Chairman of Abu Dhabi Authority for Cultural & Heritage and H.E. Mohammed Khalaf Al-Mazrouei, Director General of Abu Dhabi Authority for Cultural & Heritage. Other dignitaries such as Ambassadors, CEOs and senior members of the society also enjoyed the stunning performances. Students turned out in force to show their support for the cultural blossoming of Abu Dhabi highlighting the Abu Dhabi Classics' educational ties.

The "Journey of Emotions" was filled with much more than just emotions; the evening showcased an eccentric collection of music and the masterminds that brought it to life. The style of gypsy violinist Roby Lakatos combined so-called classical music with the vitality of Hungarian gypsy idioms, reflecting his legendary family's deep cultural and musical traditions. The mystical style of Lakatos definitely raised the pulse of the audience.

As the journey continued to a more immediate surrounding through the lands of Arabia, the "Musicians of the Nile" exhibited a realm of musical standard which conveyed why they were the first 'Arab Group' to attain widespread popularity.

Jazz trumpeter, Till Bronner, and his ensemble then transported the audience into another time zone, transforming listeners into believers as he displayed a musical genius that today has seen the talent selling more records than any other German jazz musician.

When the journey took its turn to neighboring Russia, pianist Arcadi Volodos performed yet another recital which was just spectacular. Not an uncommon site from the pianist has performed alongside the likes of the Berlin Philharmonic, the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra to name but a few.

The spotlight was soon cast on Indra Thomas as the Verdi soprano who gave yet another incredible performance to add to her already impressive portfolio of performances which include orchestral engagements such as the Philadelphia, New York Philharmonic, Boston Symphony, London Symphony, BBC Symphony and Rome's Accademia di Santa Cecilia.

The show was then given the ultimate finale by Francisco José Arcángel Ramos. Awarded the critics' prize "Flamenco de Hoy" as best cantaor for his album La calle perdía, Arcángel's performance topped off the borderless journey with a taste of timeless Andalusian art in the form of Flamenco.

Abu Dhabi Classics will stage the world famous Wagner Gala today, 25th October. The music season will continue though to May 2009 with performances by a huge line-up of renowned artists.

Abu Dhabi Classics is one of the many cultural programmes brought to you by Abu Dhabi Authority for Cultural & Heritage.