Omar Harfouch’s ‘Concerto for Peace’: A Symphony for Global Unity and Healing
In partnership with Miss Investigate
For over a century, the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées has resonated with the sounds of the finest musicians. This iconic venue, with its elegant fusion of music and history, remains as vibrant as ever. It is now set to host the compelling Concerto for Peace on September 18th 2024, a performance and powerful call to action, embodied by its inspirational composer, renowned pianist, and humanitarian Omar Harfouch.
This significant musical event has already been lauded for its symbolic and emotional resonance following its enthusiastic reception at the European Commission and the Institut du Monde Arabe in Paris, where it captivated a diverse audience of dignitaries. Additionally, it received an exceptional response at a concert in Béziers with the Béziers Méditerranée Symphony Orchestra.
Two days after the concert in the heart of Paris, Omar Harfouch will once again perform the Concerto for Peace at the United Nations in Geneva. This performance, part of the World Music Conference, will also celebrate World Peace Day on 20 September.
A Personal Call to Action
Originally composed by Harfouch for piano, violin, and chamber orchestra, the piece has been masterfully expanded by his childhood friend and prominent Middle Eastern composer, Houtaf Khoury, to include the entire Béziers Méditerranée Symphony Orchestra. Conducted by Mathieu Bonnin, the 40-piece orchestra will bring this profound composition to life, with Harfouch himself at the piano.
“The ‘Concerto for Peace’ is a 17-minute single-movement piece for Piano, Violin, and Philharmonic Orchestra,” Harfouch explains. “It expresses my deepest wish for all political and religious communities to share a moment of fraternity. Peace has become an urgent matter, and it is up to all of us to eradicate the hatred that fuels conflict and disrupts international relations.”
Inspired by his own experiences, particularly his childhood in war-torn Lebanon, Harfouch has dedicated his life to advocating for global peace. Through his music, he seeks to transform painful memories into a positive universal message of hope.
Collaborations to build Cultural Bridges
Integral to the success of the “Concerto for Peace” is Harfouch’s collaboration with Houtaf Khoury. “Houtaf and I share a profound bond, forged in the fires of our shared experiences during the Lebanese civil war,” Harfouch states. “His mastery in orchestration has brought a depth to this concerto that I could only dream of.” Khoury’s orchestration elevates the concerto, infusing it with a rich, nuanced sound that enhances its emotive power.
Another key figure in this project is Mathieu Bonnin, the conductor of the Béziers Méditerranée Orchestra. Harfouch’s initial interaction with Bonnin blossomed into a collaborative partnership that brought the work to life. “Mathieu’s interpretation of the concerto has been nothing short of metamorphic,” Harfouch notes. “His passion and understanding have allowed the concerto’s message to tug at audiences’ heartstrings.”
The involvement of the orchestra, with its diverse array of musicians and instruments, adds a unique flair to the performance. This fusion of traditional and contemporary elements enhances the concerto’s appeal and underscores Harfouch’s dedication to building cultural bridges through music.
Symphony for the Soul: A Resounding Message for the Future
Beyond his compositional and musical mastery, Harfouch devotes passionate time and energy as a champion of global peace. “Playing this concerto is a source of immense pride,” he reflects. “But more importantly, it is a responsibility—a call to all of us to stop the escalation of conflicts and seek pathways to peace together.”
Harfouch’s commitment to advocacy extends well beyond the concert hall. Recognised for his contributions, he was appointed Honorary President of the Brussels-based European NGO Dialogue and Diversity in December. On 24 February 2024, he received the CAEL Award for his composition of the “Concerto for Peace.” On 25 March 2024, he was honoured with the “Prix de l’universalisme” by LICRA (International League against Racism and Anti-Semitism).
A Journey of Resilience and Hope
Harfouch’s journey from a conflict-stricken childhood to becoming a leading figure in the global music scene is a testament to resilience and hope. His inspirational story encapsulates the very essence of the Concerto for Peace.
In addition to the concerto, Harfouch will perform other original pieces such as ‘La Fantaisie Orientale’ and ‘Save One Life,’ the latter inspired by a phrase common to both the Koran and the Torah: “He who saves one life, it is as if he has saved all mankind.” Harfouch challenges the global community with the poignant question: “Do we want to leave a world of conflict to our children and grandchildren?”
A Movement for Unity
Omar Harfouch’s Concerto for Peace is not just a musical composition; it is an event, an emblem of hope, and a testament to the enduring power of music to unite and heal. In an era where the healing power of music often contrasts starkly with the discord of human conflict, Harfouch’s “Concerto for Peace” stands as a profound reminder of art’s potential to inspire and unite. Through his concerto, Omar Harfouch invites the world to become the keys to a global symphony of peace.
This creation marks the beginning of an ambitious world tour, with further performances scheduled at some of the world’s most prestigious venues, including the Vatican in November. Harfouch’s “Concerto for Peace” is a powerful call for unity and mutual understanding, showcasing music’s ability to transcend borders and inspire positive change in a broken world.
Rolling Stone UK newsroom and editorial staff were not involved in the creation of this featured content