The Cairo Opera House is in the midst of its fabled summer season. The 18th round of the Citadel Festival for music and song opened at the 12th century Saladin Citadel on Muqattam hill east of
History, music, romance
Three veteran musicians were honoured by Culture Minister Farouq Hosni on opening night, among them the late conductor Ahmed Abul-Eid who for his magnificent efforts with al-Nour wal-Amal (Light and Hope) orchestra which is composed of blind women and which has wowed audiences inside and outside Egypt.
To the accompaniment of oriental music, the Spanish troupe
The festival also presented the Moroccan female singer Ganat who is widely popular with Egyptian audiences. In addition to her well known songs, she sang two songs from her new album.
The festival could not be complete without Nubian music, which holds a special niche in Egyptians’ hearts. Female singer
Hosni praised the Citadel Festival as a wide window through which Egyptians may savour fine arts of the world. “Holding more than 64 performances on four theatres where entry is free for all aims to spread culture and refined art among Egyptians. The history and romance of the Saladin Citadel moreover enhances the experience,” he said.
Musical books
The Cairo Opera House (COH) made a remarkable contribution to the third Book Fair held by the General Egyptian Book Organisation from 13 to 22 August at the Qaitbay Fort in