After three-year absence, Abu Dhabi Classics is returning

After a three year absence, Abu Dhabi Classics – a concert series that will feature a line-up of artists from more than 20 countries for 12 performances – will be returning to Abu Dhabi starting in October.

Lydie Solomon. Courtesy TCA Abu Dhabi

After a three-year hiatus, Abu Dhabi Classics is coming back to the capital. The resurrected concert series will feature a line-up of artists from more than 20 countries for 12 performances. Kicking off on October 14 at Manarat Al Saadiyat will be the 32-year-old French prodigy Lydie Solomon’s show, which will be dedicated to Chopin’s travels.

The Abu Dhabi Tourism &Cultural Authority (TCA) announced the 2014-2015 season yesterday. The series will see prominent international musical talent and orchestras perform in the capital, on Saadiyat Island and at historical sites in Al Ain city.

As part of this year’s theme, The Traveller, performers will showcase classic pieces from East and West.

The Abu Dhabi Theatre will host the world-renowned classical violinist Gidon Kremer and his Kremerata Baltica chamber orchestra on October 28. The season finale will be in May, followed by the TCA Abu Dhabi Classics Music Awards, which will be open to public voting.

“This is a welcome return of a series which found a strong local, regional and international following,” says Sheikh Sultan bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, the chairman of TCA Abu Dhabi. “We are confident that the powerful line-up of both established and upcoming global talent will resonate with worldwide classical-music lovers.

“The concert season will reflect the excellence that this emirate has achieved in the field of culture.”

When they’re not performing, the artists will host workshops and visit schools and universities in Abu Dhabi to encourage the arts.

“[The concerts] will be complemented by conferences and preconcert talks on the wide subject of classical music and on different composers whose pieces will be played,” says Roland Perlwitz, the head of music programming in the cultural sector of TCA. “Abu Dhabi Classics season will present a unique and holistic experience, allowing everyone to explore and enjoy the magic and diversity of the classical music universe.”

• For more information, visit www.abudhabievents.ae. Tickets will go on sale soon