The Lebanese National Philharmonic Orchestra concluded its “Summer Gala Concerts 2026” season with
a special musical evening dedicated to Colombian heritage, led by Colombian maestro Carlos Agreda.
The concert was held at the invitation of Dr. Hiba Kawas, president of the National Higher Conservatory
of Music, in cooperation with the Embassy of Colombia in Lebanon, and was attended by Colombian Ambassador
Edwin Ostos-Alfonso along with diplomatic and cultural figures.
The program offered a musical journey through Colombia’s regions, from the Pacific coast to the Andes mountains,
the Caribbean and the Orinoco plains, featuring a selection of works reflecting the diversity of Colombian
heritage and its influences from indigenous cultures, African legacy and European traditions.
Kawas said the evening formed “a musical map of Colombia,” noting the importance of cultural cooperation
in strengthening bridges of communication between peoples.
The conservatory also announced preparations to launch the 2026-2027 season, which
will be dedicated to celebrating the legacy of Lebanese composer Walid Gholmieh.
Lebanese music was also present at the concert, as the orchestra performed “Marakebna Aal Mina”
by the Rahbani brothers, arranged for orchestra by Jamal Abou El Hosn, alongside the work “The Prophet” by composer Gabriel Yared.
With this, the evening established Beirut as a space for encounter between Lebanese and Colombian music and cultural diplomacy.
