Saudi Gazette report

LONDON — In a night filled with grandeur and cultural resonance, the Saudi National Orchestra and Choir performed to a full house at Westminster Hall in London, marking a momentous occasion for Saudi music on the international stage.

Organized by the Saudi Music Commission, the concert, titled Marvels of Saudi Orchestra, was the grand finale of the orchestra’s London tour before heading to its next destination, Tokyo. This event is part of Saudi Arabia's broader efforts to elevate the global presence of its cultural and artistic talents.

The concert opened with a stirring rendition of “Ana Min Hala Ard,” a song that resonates deeply with Saudi identity. Originally performed by legendary artist Mohammed Abdu and written by the late Prince Badr bin Abdulmohsen, the piece was delivered by the Saudi National Choir, featuring the voices of 50 young men and women. The performance set the tone for an evening that would blend tradition with innovation, bringing a distinctly Saudi flair to Westminster Hall.

One of the night’s standout moments came with the fusion of the traditional Saudi song “Addait Fi Al-Marqab” with Adele’s global hit “Rolling in the Deep.” The combination of the Saudi orchestra and national choir with Adele’s powerful melody created an unforgettable musical experience, capturing the attention and admiration of the audience.

Throughout the evening, the concert showcased a rich variety of national songs and compositions, including the folk-inspired “Saudiyoun,” which incorporated elements from different regions of the Kingdom—north, south, east, and west.

The energetic performance drew enthusiastic applause from the crowd, as the fusion of regional styles emphasized the diversity of Saudi Arabia’s musical heritage.

A medley of popular Saudi songs added a contemporary touch, highlighting works that have achieved widespread acclaim and helped shape the country’s modern musical landscape.

The night concluded on a high note with “Aashiqeenak,” performed against the backdrop of the Saudi flag and a sea of green lights. Traditional Saudi dance troupes joined the orchestra, bringing to life the Kingdom’s rich cultural heritage through captivating performances that celebrated the country’s deep-rooted customs.

In addition to the musical performances, the evening also recognized the achievements of Saudi student Abdulmajeed Khankar, who was honored for securing the top rank in his music studies. The award was presented by Paul Pacifico, CEO of the Saudi Music Commission, further underscoring the Kingdom’s commitment to fostering talent and supporting artistic education.

The Marvels of Saudi Orchestra concert in London is part of the orchestra’s ongoing world tour, which has included performances in iconic venues such as Châtelet in Paris, the National Theater in Mexico City, and the Metropolitan Opera House in New York. These international performances are aligned with Saudi Arabia’s broader cultural vision under Vision 2030, which seeks to bolster the presence of Saudi arts and culture globally.