https://arab.news/4me2r
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s first international music academy, the Nahawand Center, was launched in Taif on Sunday. A cooperation agreement was signed between the Nahawand Academy of Arts and the Gnesins Russian Academy of Music.
The Gnesins Academy is among Russia’s most important international academies and one of the oldest globally, having been established over 120 years ago. It also has branches in the US, the UK, France, and other countries.
Abdullah Rashad, general supervisor of Nahawand Center, said that the cooperation aims to enhance the competency of those working in the music field in the Kingdom. “It also seeks to support talents and practitioners in music and arts, aligning with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030,” he said.
The objective is to ensure that the “music sector contributes to the local economy and creates job opportunities,” he added.
Ahmed Al-Shamrani, executive director of Nahawand Center, stated that the academy will focus on developing educational programs and musical research, accrediting official certificates for international trainees, and exchanging teachers, students, and joint academic work.
The partnership will also involve the organization of cultural events between the Kingdom and Russia.
Angie Zadan, representative of Gnesins Academy, welcomed the partnership, adding that the exchange of expertise and qualitative experiences will refine people’s musical taste, as well as develop creative content.
She added that the impact of the partnership will reach both practitioners in the field and enthusiasts, noting that it represents a significant opportunity to introduce people to the history and musical arts of both countries.
During the ceremony, a band performed the folk dance known as majrour, popular in Taif. An art exhibition was also held on the occasion.
Attendees toured the academy’s various departments, including the piano and vocal warm-ups department where some students performed, the oud and oriental singing department, and the content creation pavilion.
The event also included several musical performances by a number of the Nahawand Center’s students.
The Nahawand Center is accredited by the General Authority of Media Regulation and the General Entertainment Authority in the arts, talents and music sector.