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Mohamed Al-Ghoom (Arabic: محمد القحوم, born in 1991 (age 33)) is a Yemeni composer and maestro known for his efforts to internationalize Yemeni music.[2] Despite the challenges of Yemen's circumstances, Al-Ghoom has made a notable impact in the music scene.[3][4]
Mohamed Salem Al-Ghoom | |
|---|---|
محمد سالم القحوم | |
| Born | 1991 (age 33) |
| Nationality | Yemen |
| Education | civil engineering (B.A), Hadhramout University[1] |
| Occupation | Music composer |
| Years active | 2006–present |
| Known for | Heritage Symphonies |
| Website | www |
Early life and career
editFor the first time in the history of Yemen, Yemeni melodies and musical instruments are being combined with Western instruments and performed in an orchestra that aims to express Yemen’s cultural heritage.[5]
International recognition
editIn 2019, Al-Ghoom gained attention for his Heritage Symphony Concert in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, featuring 90 musicians from various countries, combining traditional Hadrami rhythms with orchestral elements.[3][4]
It is suggested that a recent musical performance may offer a different perspective on the war-torn country, as indicated by the composer, Mohamed Salem Al-Ghoom, during his speech at the “Yemeni melody on the Nile banks”.[5]
Heritage Symphonies Project
editAl-Ghoom initiated the "Heritage Symphonies" project, aiming to integrate local Yemeni music with global orchestral arrangements. This approach led to concerts in various countries, showcasing the diverse Yemeni musical heritage[2].[3][5] In 2019, Mohamed performed an orchestral concert in Malaysia, entitled “Hope from the depth of pain,” suggesting that music can have a positive impact in post-conflict healing. On March 10, Mohamed led a second orchestral concert entitled “Yemeni melody on the banks of the Nile” in Cairo, presenting Yemeni and Egyptian musical colors.[4][5]
Yemeni Tunes in Paris
editContinuing his mission, Al-Ghoom and his Traditional Symphony team prepared for the "Yemeni Tunes in Paris" concert. Scheduled for October, this event features 70 musicians from different nationalities, presenting symphonic pieces inspired by Yemeni heritage and classical music.[3][5]
Each of the nine symphonies tells its own story. For example, the first symphony entitled “El-Kasir” is a form of marine singing performed by Yemeni fishermen. The second, “War and Peace,” expresses a folk dance symbolizing war and reconciliation, and the importance of organizing combat ranks.[4]
In Paris a group of 30 Yemeni musicians, led by 32-year-old Mohammed Al Ghoom, founder of the project, performed in the Mogador Theatre. The concert, part of the Heritage Symphonies project, was aimed "to transform the world's perception of Yemen through its rich musical tapestry".[5]
“We are here to reshape the world's perception of our country,” Al Ghoom stated. “Yemen is not merely a theatre of war; it is a land of unparalleled cultural diversity and vibrancy that the world deserves to know about.”[5]
More than 1,500 people gathered to witness this performance of 10 musical pieces, showcasing Yemeni musical heritage and conveying a message of peace through culture.[5]
References
edit- ^ a b "محمد سالم القحوم".
- ^ https://english.alarabiya.net/variety/2019/05/07/Composer-remixes-Game-of-Thrones-theme-song-with-a-Yemeni-twist
- ^ a b c d "الموسيقار اليمني محمد القحوم يواجه الحرب بثورة السيمفونيات التراثية — Arabe". cle.ens-lyon.fr (in French). Retrieved November 26, 2023.
- ^ a b c d Binwaber, Muneer (March 16, 2022). "Yemen: Can the Sound of Guns be Replaced by an Orchestra?". International Policy Digest. Retrieved November 26, 2023.
- ^ a b c d e f g h Batati, Saleh Al (October 7, 2023). "Yemeni orchestra captivates Paris music lovers with message of peace". The National. Retrieved November 26, 2023.