The Saudi-French musical residency held in Jeddah’s historic Al-Balad district has become a vibrant platform for cross-cultural creativity. Over the course of a week, French musician Stracho Temelkovski collaborated with five talented Saudi artists to craft a unique repertoire that blends French, Saudi, and Arabic musical traditions.
The residency culminates in a public performance on December 5, 2025, at Festival Garden in Al-Balad’s Cultural Square, presenting an innovative musical experience to the local community and visitors alike.
Residency Highlights and Participants
Organized jointly by the French Consulate General, Tariq Abdulhakim Museum, French Embassy, and Alliance Française, the residency focused on artistic exchange, cultural dialogue, and collaborative innovation.
French musician Stracho Temelkovski, drawing inspiration from his Macedonian roots and French musical training, worked closely with Saudi talents including:
- Sultan Al-Qurashi – oud
- Ziyad Ayman Saeed – violin
- Amin Mohammed Abu Harb – semmsemia
- Abadi Abdulrahim Al-Qurashi – drums
- Mada Ali Al-Ghamdi – vocals
Participants described the residency as transformative, highlighting the impact of collaboration and exposure to diverse musical traditions. Sultan Al-Qurashi noted that working with Temelkovski broadened his creative approach, showcasing Saudi music to international audiences. Similarly, Mada Ali Al-Ghamdi called the experience an artistic turning point, reinforcing authenticity and freedom in her performance.
Fostering Cultural Dialogue Through Music
French Consul General Mohammed Nehad emphasized that the residency strengthens cultural dialogue by highlighting the intersection of French and Saudi musical heritage. Through collaboration, participants explored how traditional instruments and melodies can be integrated with new techniques and improvisation, resulting in a musical repertoire that is both innovative and reflective of shared cultural values.
The residency serves as a model for international artistic partnerships, demonstrating how music can bridge cultural divides and encourage mutual understanding. It also provides local artists with opportunities to experiment, innovate, and engage with global audiences, enriching the cultural landscape of Saudi Arabia.
The Final Performance: A Fusion of Styles
The culminating concert promises a unique blend of musical styles, designed to be both meditative and celebratory. Attendees can expect intricate oud and violin arrangements, rhythmic percussion from traditional drums, melodic vocals, and creative reinterpretations of French and Saudi influences.
By showcasing the outcomes of the Saudi-French musical residency, the performance underscores the power of art in promoting cross-cultural understanding, creativity, and innovation. It also highlights the potential of international collaborations to create experiences that resonate both locally and globally.
Source: Arab News
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