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On September 18, 2024, Omar Harfouch brought his visionary “Concerto for Peace” to the prestigious Théâtre des Champs-Élysées in Paris.
A unique fusion of classical and oriental music, the concert captivated a capacity audience of over 1,900 people. But this was no ordinary musical event—it was a powerful call for global unity and peace.
Harfouch, an acclaimed composer, pianist, and peace advocate, has long believed in the transformative power of music. His goal with the “Concerto for Peace” was to create an experience that transcended borders, cultures, and religions, delivering a message of harmony during divisive times.
The evening began with a warm welcome from Harfouch himself. As attendees arrived, they were greeted by an array of diplomats, artists, and cultural figures. Among them was iconic French actress Catherine Deneuve, whose presence added a touch of glamour to an already prestigious occasion.
Harfouch took the stage alongside the 60-piece Orchester Béziers Méditerranée, led by maestro Mathieu Bonnin, co-orchestrator Houtaf Khoury, and violinist Anne Gravoin.
One of the most striking elements of the performance was the symbolic decision for the entire orchestra to wear sunglasses.
Harfouch, known for his signature sunglasses, explained that they represented light as a metaphor for hope. “Light and dark cannot coexist,” he said, urging the audience to embrace the light of peace over the darkness of hatred.
The concert opened with “Fantaisie Orientale,” a lively piece blending eastern and western instruments. The audience responded enthusiastically, clapping along with the vibrant rhythms. The piece was so well-received that it was immediately reprised, much to the audience’s delight. This set the tone for an evening filled with both joy and introspection.
Next came “Tripoli,” an emotional homage to Harfouch’s hometown in Lebanon. As he described it, the piece was a love letter to a city where East meets West. A video showcasing the city’s diverse architecture, along with footage of his wife Yulia, played in the background, adding a deeply personal layer to the performance.
The third piece of the evening was “You Save One Life, You Save Humanity,” which Harfouch premiered the previous year at the European Commission. The piece carries a universal message of the equal value of all human lives. This powerful composition resonated deeply with the audience, which included peace advocates and religious leaders from various faiths.
But the night’s true highlight was Harfouch’s long-awaited “Concerto for Peace.” As the music shifted from dissonance to harmony, the concerto reflected the tension and resolution that come with the pursuit of peace. .
Harfouch’s emotional expressions throughout the performance were a testament to the concerto’s complexity, capturing both the pain of conflict and the hope for a peaceful future.
As the final notes of the concerto faded, the audience erupted into a standing ovation. Harfouch stood alone before the crowd and said, “Now it is time for you to respond to the call for peace.” In a moving finale, a 30-member choir lined the aisles and delivered a stunning harmony that served as both an ending and a call to action.
Reflecting on the evening, Harfouch said, “This event has shown how powerful music can be in bringing people together. I hope ‘Concerto for Peace’ continues to inspire a world united in harmony.”
Looking ahead, the “Concerto for Peace” tour is set to continue, with performances planned at significant venues including the Vatican, the Italian Parliament, and the United Nations in Geneva.
Each concert will address local issues while reinforcing the universal message of peace and unity. As Harfouch’s initiative continues to grow, it promises to bring people together through the universal language of music, reminding the world that peace is something we all must actively pursue.
