Saudi Arabia Launches First International Music Academy in Taif
In a significant stride towards cultural enrichment, Saudi Arabia inaugurated its first international music academy, the Nahawand Center, in Taif, as reported by Arab News. A collaboration agreement was formalized between the Nahawand Academy of Arts and the renowned Gnesins Russian Academy of Music.
The Gnesins Academy, with a legacy spanning over 120 years, stands as one of Russia’s foremost international academies and is among the oldest globally. It has branches in the US, the UK, France, and other countries.
Abdullah Rashad, the general supervisor of Nahawand Center, highlighted the collaboration’s aim to enhance the competency of individuals in the music field within the Kingdom. He emphasized that the initiative aligns with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 by supporting talents and practitioners in music and arts.
The overarching objective is to ensure that the music sector not only enriches cultural experiences but also contributes to the local economy by creating job opportunities, Rashad added.
Ahmed Al-Shamrani, executive director of Nahawand Center, outlined the academy’s focus on developing educational programs, conducting musical research, accrediting international trainees, and facilitating the exchange of teachers, students, and collaborative academic work. The partnership will also encompass the organization of cultural events between Saudi Arabia and Russia.
Angie Zadan, representative of Gnesins Academy, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, emphasizing that the exchange of expertise will refine musical taste and foster the development of creative content. She noted that the impact of this partnership extends to practitioners and enthusiasts alike, presenting a significant opportunity to acquaint people with the rich musical history of both nations.
The Nahawand Center, accredited by the General Authority of Media Regulation and the General Entertainment Authority in the arts, talents, and music sector, hosted a celebratory event featuring various musical performances by students and an art exhibition. The academy’s diverse departments were showcased during the event, including piano and vocal warm-ups, oud and oriental singing, and the content creation pavilion.
This establishment represents a noteworthy step in advancing Saudi Arabia’s cultural landscape and fostering international collaborations in the realm of music and arts.
