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Recap of the 11th National Andalusian Music Festival
The 11th National Festival of Andalusian Music concluded recently at the Maison de la culture Tahar Ouettar in Souk Ahras, showcasing the artistic capabilities of numerous musical associations across Algeria. The prestigious festival celebrated traditional Andalusian music, drawing participation from various provinces in the country.
Winning Performances
The Wasl El Andalous Association from Constantine triumphed in the competition, earning first place for their remarkable performance. Their mastery of traditional singing and instrumentation left a lasting impression on both the jury and the audience. The second position was claimed by the music association from Ténès, Chlef, while El Zahra El Andaloussia from Souk Ahras and Nassim Al-Anes from Constantine shared the third spot.
In recognition of their achievements, the winners received cash prizes as a token of appreciation for their artistic endeavors and their role in preserving Algeria’s rich musical heritage.
Acclaimed Closing Ceremony
The festival’s closing ceremony was vibrant, featuring renowned artists in the Andalusian music scene. Adlane Fergani captivated the audience with the song "Saksi oua sal aâliha," while Dounia El Djazaïria showcased her talent with "Aâchek Mamhoun." Various musical groups representing the three major Andalusian schools—Tlemcen, Algiers, and Constantine—added to the festival’s charm, enveloping the audience in exquisite melodies and encouraging active participation from this knowledgeable crowd.
Diverse Musical Showcase and Educational Initiatives
Over the course of five days, the festival hosted 22 artists who performed a rich assortment of music representing the diversity of the Andalusian school. In addition to musical performances, the event featured informative lectures and specialized training workshops designed for younger artists. These sessions focused on significant themes such as the artistic legacy of the scholar Ahmed Tifachi, the intricate musical modes of Sika and Mezmoum, as well as traditional percussion instrument manufacturing techniques.
Community Engagement and Outreach
The festival aimed to reach beyond just the provincial capital, organizing localized performances at the Roman theater of Khemissa and the Kateb Yacine hall in Sedrata. Exhibitions displayed traditional musical instruments, while master classes were arranged to facilitate learning instrumental techniques, further promoting the protection and appreciation of Algeria’s cultural heritage.
The festival, commemorating the great scholar Ahmed Tifachi from the 12th century, not only highlighted the splendor of Andalusian music but also reinforced community engagement and educational opportunities for future generations of artists. By providing a platform for showcasing talent and sharing knowledge, the festival has contributed significantly to the preservation and celebration of Algeria’s musical traditions.
This annual celebration of Andalusian music was a resounding success, fostering cultural pride and ensuring the continuation of this cherished heritage for years to come.
