A true hymn to cross-breeding, the opening concert, the result of an exceptional residency, brought together Maâlems Hassan Boussou and My Tayeb Dehbi with the Dumanlé Company, Nino de Los Reyes, Sergio Martinez & Ilê Aiyê.
In front of a captivated and enthusiastic audience, of all ages and different nationalities, the very eclectic Hassan Boussou whose music penetrates the souls and the fiery My Tayeb Dehbi exchanged their spiritual notes with their Brazilian alter-egos, the very committed Ilê Aiyê .
the stage performances of the Ivorians from the Dumanlé company resonated with the tempo of Nino de Los Reyes and Sergio Martinez, the two stars of current Flamenco jazz.
It is indeed a fusion of varied, carefully measured influences, bringing together Morocco, the Ivory Coast, Brazil and Spain in a concert that will certainly go down in history.
This musical and visual experience is an explosion of rhythms mixing the genres gnaoua, Brazilian Batucada, Flamenco and Zaouli to put their similarities into perspective.This show also marks, for the first time, the exceptional meeting between 3 genres classified on the UNESCO list of intangible cultural heritage (Gnaoua, Flamenco and Zaouli).
Another highlight of the evening was the meeting between two exceptional talents. The first, Alune wade, is used to the most prestigious collaborations: Youssou N’dour, Cheick tidiane Seck, Bobby McFerrin, Joe Zawinul, Aziz Sahmaoui, and Marcus Miller.
Senegalese bass virtuoso, composer and singer Alune Wade crossed notes, during this evening, with the young Maâlem Abdelmalek El Kadiri, spiritual son of the greatest Gnaoui masters such as Maâlem Abdallah Guinea, Maâlem abderrahman Paco, Maâlem Cherif Regragui and many others.
Artists, from the four corners of the world, shared the stage, creating moments of harmony and musical magic. Spectators, transported by this unique symbiosis, enjoyed a rich cultural experience, testifying to the singularity of this emblematic festival.
The streets of Essaouira resonated with the echoes of this universal celebration, further consolidating the festival’s reputation as an unmissable event on the world artistic scene.
This year once again, the Festival offers a bold and inclusive program, the hallmark of this event which offers a unique experience in the world.
On the menu are 53 concerts, a human rights forum, a training program with the prestigious musical institution Berklee College of Music, round tables on Gnaoua culture, a major exhibition of Moroccan artists and numerous activities across the city.
What are the benefits of cross-cultural collaborations in music festivals for artists and audiences?
Interview with Music Expert: The Impact of Cross-Cultural Collaborations in Music Festivals
Editor, Time.news: Today, I’m thrilled to speak with renowned music expert Dr. Elena Torres, who has been closely following the evolution of global music festivals.We’ll dive into the recent extraordinary concert that showcased a fusion of cultures at the annual festival in Essaouira, blending diverse musical traditions such as gnaoua, Flamenco, and Brazilian Batucada. Thank you for joining us, Dr. Torres.
Q: Dr. Torres, can you elaborate on the meaning of the recent concert featuring Maâlems Hassan Boussou and My Tayeb Dehbi alongside artists from Brazil and Spain?
Dr.Elena Torres: Absolutely! This concert is a remarkable testament to the power of cross-cultural collaboration.The fusion of Moroccan Gnaoua music, Brazilian Batucada, and Spanish Flamenco creates a truly unique auditory experience. Each genre carries its own story and heritage, and when artists like Hassan Boussou and My Tayeb Dehbi exchanged their musical notes with Nino de Los Reyes and Sergio Martinez, it showcased a harmonious blend of sounds that resonated deeply with the audience.
Q: How does the inclusion of genres classified by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage, such as Gnaoua and Flamenco, impact the global cultural landscape?
Dr. Torres: The recognition of these genres by UNESCO elevates their status and highlights their importance within the global cultural context. It encourages artists and audiences alike to appreciate these traditions not just as music but as vital expressions of identity and community heritage. The recent festival exemplified this, revealing the shared roots and similarities among different cultures, fostering a sense of unity through music.
Q: What insights can you provide regarding the role of music festivals like this in promoting human rights and cultural diversity?
Dr. Torres: Festivals like the one held in Essaouira play a critical role in promoting human rights and cultural diversity.They offer a platform for dialog, as seen with the human rights forum and discussions on Gnaoua culture. Additionally, the inclusion of training programs in collaboration with institutions like Berklee College of Music reflects a commitment to education and artistic growth. These initiatives not only celebrate cultural richness but also empower artists and communities, facilitating a deeper understanding of human rights issues globally.
Q: with 53 concerts and various artistic activities,what does this bold and inclusive programming say about the festival’s vision?
Dr. Torres: The festival’s programme is emblematic of its commitment to inclusivity and innovation. By curating a diverse lineup that spans across genres and cultures, the festival invites audiences of all backgrounds to engage with contemporary artistic expressions. This approach not only enriches the audience’s experience but also signals to the global arts community that collaboration and openness are essential for nurturing creativity in the modern world.
Q: what advice would you give to aspiring musicians looking to participate in global music festivals?
Dr. Torres: My advice for aspiring musicians is to immerse themselves in various musical traditions and cultures. Embrace collaboration, seek out diverse influences, and don’t shy away from stepping out of your comfort zone. Festivals often look for originality and the courage to create something new from the old. building relationships with artists from different backgrounds can broaden your artistic perspective and lead to amazing opportunities in a global setting.
Editor,Time.news: Thank you, Dr. Torres, for your insights on the transformative power of cross-cultural collaborations in music. Your expertise provides invaluable guidance for artists and festival-goers alike.