To celebrate World Music Day, the “Association de développement de Gemmayzé” (ADG) organized a free outdoor concert on the stairs of St. Nicholas on the evening of Saturday, June 22, 2024. The event created a lively musical atmosphere that the residents of Gemmayzeh and guests from other areas greatly enjoyed.
The concert was attended by prominent political figures, including MP Nadim Gemayel, former minister and MP Nicolas Sehnaoui, and MP Waddah el Sadek, as well as the Mayor of Beirut, Abdullah Darwish. Religious and civil figures and a crowd of locals and visitors also enjoyed the musical program, which spread joy and brought back beautiful memories for the residents of Beirut.
The event began with the Lebanese national anthem, followed by a speech from former Minister Dr. May Chidiac on behalf of the ADG. She welcomed the attendees, thanked Beirut Governor Judge Marwan Abboud for his ongoing support, and highlighted the transformations in Gemmayzeh and the association’s efforts to revitalize the area since the Beirut port explosion.
Toufic Tasso then gave a brief speech about the challenges faced during the preparation and execution of the event in a short period of time. The artistic program started with a wonderful operatic performance by tenor Mark Raidy Baz, followed by the band “LeBam,” which delivered live musical pieces that conveyed a message of love and peace through music.
The evening also featured the “Greek Community Band in Beirut,” which performed romantic songs and dances. Singer Angie Mallah followed with a medley of popular Western songs. The event concluded with singer Rabih Salameh, who took the audience on a journey through Eastern and Lebanese songs until the end of the evening.
The 2024 World Music Day celebration marked another milestone in the activities of the “Association de développement de Gemmayze,” restoring some of the area’s past glory and sparkle. It reinforced the determination and hope for a future that meets aspirations and needs, worthy of the sacrifices and the beautiful image envisioned for Gemmayze’s revival as a cultural and artistic hub, a unique heritage and architectural oasis, and a vibrant heart for Beirut and the nation.