Le 6e Festival de la chanson andalouse de jeunesse s’ouvre à Alger
Summary of the 6th Festival of Andalusian Youth Song in Algiers
The 6th edition of the Festival of Wilaya of Andalusian Youth Song kicked off on Wednesday evening in Algiers, featuring a ceremonial performance by an Andalusian music orchestra. This year’s festival, themed "The Nuba in the Memory of Youth," runs until March 23 at the Aissa Messaoudi Cultural Center in Hussein Dey. It is organized under the auspices of the Minister of Youth and is expected to showcase the musical talents of various participating orchestras representing three distinct schools of Andalusian music.
The opening act was performed by the orchestra of the “Alwane El Andalous” Association, which includes around thirty musicians and performers, many of whom are past winners of this competition aimed at budding enthusiasts of the authentic Andalusian genre. The inaugural event captivated the audience for two and a half hours with a rich repertoire that revisited classic pieces from the three main Algerian variants of Andalusian music: Sanâa (Center), Gharnati (West), and Malouf (East).
According to Nawel Fekhardji, president of the cultural association "Alwane El Andalous" and a descendant of the esteemed Andalusian music master Abderrezak Fekhardji (1911-1984), this festival will witness the participation of eight orchestras from various cultural centers within the capital. A jury will evaluate the performances, awarding three prizes to the top winners, along with a special "Jury Prize" at the festival’s conclusion on March 23.
Since its inception in 2018, the Festival of Wilaya of Andalusian Youth Song has been organized by the Directorate of Youth, Sports, and Leisure of the Wilaya of Algiers, in collaboration with the "Alwane El Andalous" association. Its primary objective is to preserve, promote, and transmit the Andalusian musical heritage to younger generations.
The festival not only serves as a platform for showcasing musical talents but also emphasizes the importance of cultural heritage among the youth. By connecting them with their historical roots, the event plays a vital role in ensuring that traditional music continues to thrive within contemporary society. The diverse audience that attended the opening ceremony reflects the ongoing appreciation for Andalusian music in Algeria and its significance as a cultural asset.
As the festival progresses, it promises to deliver more performances that enrich the artistic landscape, inspire young musicians, and celebrate the vibrant tradition of Andalusian music—a genre that has long been intertwined with Algeria’s cultural identity. The dedication of participants and organizers alike underscores the festival’s goal of cultural continuity through music, ensuring that the beauty of Andalusian song remains woven into the fabric of Algerian life for generations to come.
This year’s festival is anticipated to offer not only musical performances but also educational opportunities for young artists interested in mastering the intricacies of Andalusian music. The presence of established musicians as part of the jury further signifies the commitment to nurturing new talent and preserving the essence of this cherished cultural form.
As the event unfolds, it stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Andalusian music in Algeria and the collective effort to keep its tradition alive among the youth. The festival’s thoughtful organization and the vibrant cultural expressions promise to make this year’s edition a truly memorable celebration of artistic heritage.
