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Le Souffle de ma vie, ("The Pulse of my Life") a biography by Zahi Haddad, tells the inspiring story of flutist Michel Tirabosco—a life marked by triumph over physical challenges, a remarkable international career and unforgettable artistic encounters. Two book launches are scheduled in Switzerland this January and February. As the release date approaches, both Zahi Haddad and Michel Tirabosco share with This is Beirut their reflections on the creative process behind the work.
On January 14, 2025, Le Souffle de ma vie will be published by Éditions Favre. Written by Zahi Haddad, a biographer celebrated for exploring themes like inclusion, diversity and authenticity, the book paints a compelling portrait of Tirabosco’s extraordinary journey. Two launch events will take place in Switzerland: January 16 at 6 PM at Payot Cornavin and February 11 at 6 PM at the Société Hall in Collonge-Bellerive.
Born with a congenital condition that left him with underdeveloped arms, Michel Tirabosco has become an internationally renowned flutist with 15 albums to his credit. In this biography, he opens up about his childhood, his passion for music—particularly the pan flute and the transverse flute—and his extraordinary career as a soloist, including a world tour with André Rieu.
The book is more than a biography, it’s a testament to courage, resilience and the power of music. The narrative is interwoven with references to popular and classical music pieces, inviting readers to listen along and deepen their connection with the artist’s story.
As Le Souffle de ma vie is set to debut, Zahi Haddad and Michel Tirabosco reflect on the collaboration and the deep bond they formed during the process.
Questions for Zahi Haddad
How has your writing evolved over the years?
Writing has always been central to my life, whether in journalism, communications or my work promoting Geneva’s international significance. Even as a child, I loved retreating to create and write stories. A few years ago, I made the bold decision to leave everything behind and dedicate myself entirely to writing. For some, it seemed like a risky move, but for me, it was about pursuing true fulfillment. Time has proven me right, as people, public institutions and private companies have embraced my work and supported me.
Your work often revolves around themes like inclusion, diversity and authenticity. Do you choose these topics, or do they choose you?
These themes are the foundation of my work, and I explore them through various perspectives. I’ve written about Geneva’s international role in 126 battements de cœur pour la Genève internationale, migration through portrait collections and disability in Handicap, une vie de tous les jours, which I co-wrote with Paralympian Celine van Till, a double silver medalist at the Paris Olympics and World Championships. Biographies hold a special place in my heart because they capture fragments of our shared human experience. All these encounters inspire me, particularly as inclusion and togetherness are crucial societal topics.
What stood out to you most about Michel Tirabosco, either artistically or personally, during your work on this biography?
I had heard about Michel’s extraordinary talent but didn’t realize the global scale of his performances. Through this biography, I came to understand how accomplished and celebrated he truly is. Meeting Michel feels like a breath of fresh air—he radiates positivity, chases his dreams and finds beauty in life. He has an incredible connection to nature and the people around him. Spending time with him taught me a lot about myself and my own outlook on life.
Questions for Michel Tirabosco
Why did you choose Zahi Haddad as your biographer?
Zahi and I live in the same neighborhood, and fate brought us together one day. We instantly clicked and developed a warm, friendly connection. At the time, Zahi was working on a book about the daily lives of people with disabilities and naturally asked me to participate. Later, he gave me his book Au bonheur de Yaya, which explores his Lebanese roots. I admired his fluid, heartfelt writing style. I also feel a deep connection to Lebanon, having performed at a festival near Beirut with my family. I later returned to collaborate with the Order of Malta on recordings for pan flute, choir and accompaniment, which were performed at the Feast of Saint John the Baptist in a large Beirut church. Zahi’s book brought back those wonderful memories, and I saw it as a sign to work together.
Were you involved in the writing process?
We spent a lot of time together, reflecting and discussing my story. Over the course of five months, Zahi worked tirelessly to gather the details and write the book. I’m incredibly grateful because the result surpassed all my expectations. He captured my thoughts and emotions with remarkable precision and sensitivity.
What message did you want to convey to readers?
This book wasn’t meant to catalog every detail of my life. Instead, I wanted to offer a humble and authentic account of my journey. Everyone has their own unique path in life, and I hope my story, as both a musician and a person living with a disability, inspires readers to believe that anything is possible. We all deserve beautiful moments on this earth. I also hope this book helps people discover and appreciate the pan flute as an instrument.
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