UAE National Orchestra is launching – here's how to audition

Group, which will make debut in September, will reflect country's rich heritage and act as cultural bridge-builder

Auditions are open to all nationalities and musicians proficient in both western and regional instruments, as well as vocalists. Victor Besa / The National

Emirati musical heritage will be showcased through an official UAE National Orchestra. Designed to advance the country's music sector and serve as a form of cultural diplomacy, the ensemble will launch its performance season in September.

Established under the patronage of Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, an official website outlines a two-phase audition process for permanent members, which will begin soon.

Auditions are open to all nationalities aged 18 and above who hold a valid Emirates ID or passport. The orchestra seeks musicians proficient in both western and regional instruments, as well as vocalists. The first audition phase requires an application form and recorded submissions, which are due by January 26. Successful candidates will then be invited to an in-person audition in Abu Dhabi before a jury.

Chaired by UAE Minister of State Noura Al Kaabi, the orchestra's board of directors includes UAE Minister of Culture Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi chairman Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, cultural adviser to the President Zaki Nusseibeh and Abu Dhabi Music and Arts founder Huda Alkhamis-Kanoo.

"Through the UAE National Orchestra, we aim to enhance and showcase our local culture and arts, building bridges of communication with other world cultures,” Al Kaabi said. “The orchestra will be a source of inspiration and a driving force in both local and global communities, reaffirming our commitment to supporting creativity and artistic excellence.”

Discussions surrounding the formation of the UAE’s official orchestra date back to 2018. Al Kaabi, in her then role as Minister of Culture, revealed the news during an Abu Dhabi forum organised by the Federal Youth Authority. She elaborated the group would include both homegrown and international talent.

The UAE National Orchestra will also join other official ensembles in the Gulf, including the Oman Royal Symphony Orchestra, which will celebrate its 40th anniversary next year, and the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra, formed in 2007.