Les Musicales de Baabdath festival recommences with unwavering perseverance in its 7th edition titled Strings of Hope 2023. The concert series stands as a manifestation of solid determination to bring out a culture of life and optimism despite the pervasive challenges Lebanon is grappling with.
Running from October 10 to November 29, the edition promises magical musical performances encompassing various genres, including baroque, chamber and 20th-century music, all enriched by jazz elements.
The Les musicales de Baabdath festival showcases an international array of acclaimed musicians from Austria, Switzerland, Germany, Spain, France, Brazil, the United States and Lebanon. Remarkably, all concerts are accessible with free admission and complimentary transportation from Beirut to Baabdath.
Opening on October 10 in Baabdath, this year’s edition pays tribute to the resilience of the Lebanese people through a performance by the Beirut Chamber Orchestra, reflecting appreciation for Lebanese musicians, poets, composers and those imbued with a passion for music. Under the baton of French conductor Jean-Pierre Schmitt, the ensemble will interpret compositions by Nicolas J. Chaanine, inspired by the poems of Nada Skaff, with New York-based saxophonist Javier Oviedo as a featured soloist.
Moreover, the series welcomes back Austrian pianist Aaron Pilsan, who will be delivering two concerts supported by the Embassy of Austria in Lebanon and the Lebanese National Higher Conservatory of Music. Pilsan’s repertoire will blend compositions by Philip Glass, Franz Liszt, Clara and Robert Schumann, offering an eclectic musical experience.
In collaboration with the Goethe Institut-Libanon, the festival introduces the DSO Berlin Piano Quartet to the Lebanese audience, presenting monumental works by Mozart, Schubert and Houtaf Khoury. Additionally, during their 10-day residency, the DSO Berlin musicians will mentor 14 Lebanese students and young professionals as part of the Strings of Hope Chamber Music Mentorship Program, fostering inclusivity and nurturing the burgeoning talents of the young Lebanese musical generation.
The festival will also bridge cultural divides by featuring Brazilian pianist Hercules Gomes, who will immerse the audience in the rich repertoire of Brazilian Choro, characterized by Villa-Lobos as the Soul of the Brazilian people. This genre, originating from a confluence of African, indigenous and European cultural heritages will be presented with a jazzy twist coupled with Gomes’ profound virtuosity.
Furthering international collaboration, the festival welcomes jazz virtuosos Ernesto Aurignac and Moisés P. Sánchez in association with the Embassy of Spain in Lebanon. The duo will pay tribute to jazz classics and present their unique arrangements and improvisations, infusing the Les Musicales de Baabdath stage with the authentic essence of jazz.
The concluding performance will feature the renowned Arcis Saxophon Quartett, presenting works by Mozart, Shostakovich and Gershwin, offering a harmonious culmination to the 2023 season.
The festival’s dedication to providing public access to world-class music is sustained by the unwavering support of sponsors, partners and benefactors, including the Municipality and the Maronite Parish of Baabdath. The organizing committee extends heartfelt gratitude to all supporters, recognizing that without their commitment, this edition would not have been possible.
The festival maintains a non-reservation and open seating policy, encouraging early attendance to secure seats. Regrettably, children under the age of seven will not be admitted. The doors will open 45 minutes prior to the scheduled start of the concerts at 8 PM.
