// Israel Philharmonic Orchestra Plays ‘Hatikvah,’ Mahler, and Mozart in Abu Dhabi

The Israel Philharmonic Orchestra made its debut in Abu Dhabi, marking the first time that it performed in an Arab country since 1945. The orchestra was invited to participate in the prestigious Abu Dhabi Classics Festival by the Ministry of Culture of the United Arab Emirates and played at the Emirates Palace. Israel and the UAE normalized their relations with the Abraham Accords in 2020. Since then, the cooperation between the two countries has grown stronger both in the political and economic fields and in the cultural one.
— The Jerusalem Post
 
Quote: “Our performance in an Arab country is perhaps a small step on the way to what we all wish for — peace,” [conductor Lahav] Shani said according to Ynet. “It may be a small step, but it is certainly heartwarming. Music is a language of communication, a universal language that connects people, beyond words. And this connection that it produces is our humble contribution.”
— The Jerusalem Post
 
Learn more about the Israeli Philharmonic Orchestra from Wikipedia. ►
 
Read “Israel Philharmonic Orchestra debuts in Abu Dhabi, first time in Arab country since 1945” ►
 
Watch “Lahav Shani Speaking at the Abu Dhabi Gala Concert” [3:55]. ►
 
Watch “The Israel Philharmonic Orchestra plays Israel’s National Anthem ‘Hatikvah’ in Abu Dhabi.” [1:42]. ►
 
Photo: American Friends of the Israeli Philharmonic Orchestra
 
We welcome your comments. Click here.