Tenth Edition of Spiritual Maqam Nights Opens in Cairo
(AWP) - The tenth edition of the Spiritual Maqam (Station) Nights have started once again in Cairo, featuring heritage songs and musical performances expressive of the diversity of Egyptian heritage and culture.
The shows are held in the historical Al-Sinnari House cultural center in the Cairo district of Al-Sayyeda Zaynab, which is run by the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, and will run until 25 March.
Ahmed Abdullah Zayed, Director of Bibliotheca Alexandrina, said the library offers this type of music because of its positive effect on the people who like it.
“There was a massive turnout at the concert, and many guests remained standing throughout the concert because all of the seats were occupied. As long as the people have needs, the library must meet them,” added Zayed.
The first night saw performances by the bands Risalat Salam and Sama’ for Mawlawi Sufi dancing, as directed by Intissar Abdel-Fattah.
“The objective of these shows is to provide a good form of art. There is another objective of the Risalat Salam band, which I formed. It encompasses the Islamic and Coptic heritages,” he said.
Abdel-Fattah voiced appreciation for the Copts and the church for their keenness to participate in these nights, adding that this was a grand gesture that is highly appreciated.
“In the end, we are one and the same personality and maqam,” he stressed.
The bands Banat Al-Hour, Nazra,Al-Fagr and the Nubian Drums and Local Instruments are taking part in the event, which is scheduled to end on Monday with a closing concert that brings together the two bands, Tawashih al-Fanan Adnan al-Sasa and Sama’.