In line with the ESNCM’s vision and plans for the establishment of the Arab Orchestra in Palestine that shall be launched in late 2020 or early 2021, more than 75 musicians from all over Palestine participated in an experimental first rehearsal of what shall become an orchestra dedicated to performing Arabic music. The Arab Orchestra project aims to revive Arab heritage in general and Palestinian musical legacy in particular and shall be composed of Arabic musical instruments, such as the oud, qanoon, buzuq, nay, and Arabic rhythm instruments, as well as western instruments that include the violin, viola, cello, contrabass, and accordion.
This orchestra has a pivotal musical role to play in the music scene of Palestine and the Arab world. As the idea is novel, it shall rely on in-depth studies to help understand and determine the harmony and suitable combination of instruments. An initial workshop was conducted in Sharjah Hall at ESNCM’s Ramallah branch on February 21, 2020, to evaluate this audio experiment and determine which instruments should be included in the orchestra. To assess how well the various instruments are compatible and analyze their combined sounds, two pieces of music that had been arranged for this particular purpose were presented and rehearsed. Further intensive training is scheduled for the members of the orchestra, and concerts shall be held in Palestine and Jordan in 2021.