Abu Dhabi-: Abu Dhabi Festival is thrilled to announce the resounding success of the Arab World Premiere event held at The Red Theater, located within The Arts Center, NYU Abu Dhabi, on 13 February 2024. The evening showcased the exceptional talents of violinist Yamen Saadi and pianist Julien Quentin, captivating audiences with their mesmerising performance.
Yamen Saadi, at just 25 years old, enchanted attendees with his masterful violin skills, a testament to his appointment as concertmaster of the Vienna State Opera Orchestra and Vienna Philharmonic. His performances, celebrated throughout Europe, Tokyo, and Jerusalem, reflect a blend of supreme virtuosity and elegance that left a lasting impression on all in attendance.
Her Excellency Huda Ibrahim Alkhamis, Founder of the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF) and Founder and Artistic Director of the Abu Dhabi Festival, emphasised the vital role of the arts in bridging divides, fostering human interaction, and promoting cultural exchange. She asserted that the Abu Dhabi Festival, with its theme “The Will for Hope,” underscores its dedication to supporting Arab and international artists in conveying their humanitarian messages and emphasising their enduring contribution to the journey of civilisation and intellectual discourse.
She continued: “The outstanding violinist Yamen Saadi takes the spotlight in a groundbreaking performance, a first of its kind in the Arab world, alongside the renowned pianist Julien Quentin. Together, they present timeless classics of classical music, spanning the repertoire of eminent global composers from Beethoven to Strauss, traversing through Brahms, in a captivating selection of violin and piano sonatas.”
Accompanied by the talented Julien Quentin on piano, the duo delivered a performance that transcended expectations, showcasing a deep musical connection and unparalleled artistry. From the dazzling repertoire featured in Saadi’s debut recital album, Voices from Paris, to the emotive interpretations of classical pieces, the evening was a testament to the power of music to inspire and move audiences.
The Red Theater provided the perfect setting for this unforgettable performance, offering an intimate atmosphere where audience members could immerse themselves fully in the beauty of the music. The event marked a significant moment in the cultural landscape of Abu Dhabi and confirmed Abu Dhabi Festival’s commitment to showcasing world-class talent from around the globe.
The success of this event reinforces Abu Dhabi Festival’s position as the largest cultural celebration in the United Arab Emirates, dedicated to promoting arts and culture on a global scale. As the festival continues to foster creativity, innovation and collaboration across diverse artistic disciplines, audiences can look forward to more unforgettable experiences in the years to come.
