First Orchestral Concert, Fujairah Philharmonic Orchestra
Under the esteemed patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of the Emirate of Fujairah, the city prepares to welcome a defining moment in its artistic journey: The First Orchestral Concert, presented by the Fujairah Philharmonic Orchestra.
Taking place on Friday, 5 June at 7:30 PM at the Fujairah Creative Cultural Center, this grand event stands as a celebration of musical excellence, cultural pride, and the UAE’s growing presence on the global arts stage.
The concert brought together a distinguished ensemble of Fujairahs musicians, international soloists, and a repertoire curated to honour both classical tradition and contemporary orchestral expression. Audiences experienced an evening filled with emotional depth, technical brilliance, and the timeless beauty of orchestral music.
Hosted within the Ministry of Culture’s Creative Cultural Center, the event reflected Fujairah’s commitment to nurturing the arts and offering world‑class cultural experiences to residents and visitors alike.
Opening with the UAE National Anthem, the evening pays homage to the nation’s identity before guiding the audience through a rich musical journey. From beloved classical masterpieces to modern cinematic themes, the program promises to captivate listeners of all ages. The concert also highlights Fujairah’s dedication to cultural leadership, proudly carrying the message: “Proud of UAE.”
More than a performance, this inaugural orchestral concert marks the beginning of a new chapter for Fujairah—one where creativity, heritage, and global artistry meet. With the support of His Highness and the Ministry of Culture, the event sets the stage for future artistic endeavours that will continue to elevate the emirate’s cultural landscape.
The repertoire for this inaugural performance has been curated to showcase both classical mastery and beloved modern themes. Each piece has been selected not only for its musical significance but for its ability to connect with audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
Highlights of the Evening:
Concerto in B-flat Major for Clarinet, Bassoon & Orchestra Franz Danzi Featuring the expressive artistry of Marco Conti (clarinet) and Aleksa Marinkovic (bassoon), this opening work sets a tone of elegance and technical brilliance.
Vals Triste – Jean Sibelius A hauntingly beautiful piece that drifts between fragility and strength, capturing the Nordic soul of Sibelius.
Hungarian Dance No. 5 – Johannes Brahms Spirited, fiery, and instantly recognizable—this dance promises to lift the energy of the hall.
Flower Duet from Lakmé – Leo Delibes (arr. V. Kuzma) A timeless duet reimagined for orchestra, bringing warmth and lyrical charm.
Adagio from Oboe Concerto in D Minor – Alessandro Marcello (arr. V. Kuzma) With Juan Manuel Garcia-Cano as soloist, this adagio becomes a moment of serene, heartfelt stillness.
Canon in D – Johann Pachelbel (arr. V. Kuzma) A universal favourite, performed with fresh orchestral colour.
Harry Potter Theme – John Williams (arr. V. Kuzma) A magical interlude that invites the audience into the world of fantasy and wonder.
Allegro from Mandolin Concerto – Antonio Vivaldi (arr. V. Kuzma) Featuring Volodymyr Kuzma on solo violin, this lively piece sparkles with Baroque vitality.
Selections from Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Ballet Including the Sugar Plum Fairy Dance, Arabian Dance, and March, each arranged by V. Kuzma—an enchanting suite of ballet favourites.
Italiana in Algeri Overture – Gioachino Rossini (arr. V. Kuzma) A burst of operatic humour and orchestral fireworks.
Radetzky March – Johann Strauss A triumphant finale that invites the audience to clap along, ending the night on a jubilant note.
The success of this grand evening is inseparable from the passion and perseverance of the Fujairah Philharmonic Orchestra’s students. Their dedicated rehearsal, attention to detail, and commitment to excellence have infused the performance with a distinctive warmth — a community heartbeat that transforms each note into something deeply human.
Under the guidance of their mentors, these musicians have honed their craft not only to master technique but to embody the spirit of collaboration and artistry. Their presence on stage represents the future of Fujairah’s cultural scene — a generation that blends discipline with creativity, and tradition with innovation. The students’ dedication added the essential touch of magic — turning a concert into a shared triumph for the entire community.
Angela Buchner
