The 14th Bahrain International Music Festival which took place last year in November 5-11 brought in musicians from France, Palestine, Oman, Egypt and Iraq. I was only able to watch the performance oft he Manama Singers and Orchestra with their Haydn Imperial Nelson Mass and the Royal Oman Symphony Orchestra. Overall the performance was great. It was held in the newly built Cultural Hall. I can say that the Royal Oman Symphony Orchestra with its conductor, Leif Sundstrup gave the best performance in the week long event. The Manama Singers also did an excellent job with their conductor Alistair Auld who is the formost conductor in the island kingdom. There were several important guests, dignitaries and musicians alike. The President of the Royal Society of Music, Mr. Carrillo said that the performance made by the Royal Oman Symphony Orchestra was the best musical performance he has ever seen. The event was a success if their aim is to improve Cultural life in Bahrain. For a country with not much history in music, the Bahrain International Music Festival seems remarkable to have succeded with many people who attended. |
