This Franco-Lebanese artist, with 19 albums to his credit and numerous accolades, including four Victoires de la Musique and a César, dedicated his concert to his latest album, TOMA (Trumpets of Michel-Ange), captivating the audience with his creativity and infectious energy.
An Innovative Instrumental Performance
Joined on stage by a drummer, two bassists, a saxophonist, and five trumpeters, Ibrahim Maalouf transformed the Carthage theater into a space of musical communion.
His signature four-valve trumpet, invented by his father, is at the heart of his art. Evolving from classical music to jazz and embracing diverse influences, his music transcends genres. During this concert, he presented an instrumental performance that was both lively and innovative, structured as a captivating narrative that connected the pieces seamlessly.
A Show Inspired by Love
The concept of the show, as Maalouf shared during the press conference and with the audience, was inspired by his own wedding day with singer Hiba Tawaji. Conceived as a celebration, the concert traced the stages of a marriage ceremony: the proposal, the moment of saying “yes,” and the festive dance of the bride.
Each segment had its own rhythm and tempo, inviting the audience to stand and move to the music. The brass instruments, dominant throughout, alternated between virtuosic solos and collective performances, while a dancer enriched certain passages with African, Oriental, and Gypsy choreographies.
A Tunisian Touch and a Moving Tribute
Maalouf incorporated a local note by including an excerpt from the introduction of “Sidi Mansour,” specially arranged for Carthage, which sparked enthusiasm among the audience. He also paid a poignant tribute to the late Lebanese artist Ziad Rahbani, who passed away that morning, by performing “Saalouni ennass,” composed for Fairouz. This nostalgic moment saw the audience singing along, guided by Maalouf’s voice and trumpet.
An Intimate Connection with the Audience
Between pieces, Maalouf shared personal anecdotes, reflecting on his childhood, his father who instilled in him a passion for music, and his departure from Lebanon to France due to the war. “I found refuge in music to integrate,” he confided, lending emotional depth to his performance. The audience actively participated, joining in wordless vocal improvisations guided by the artist’s voice and music, creating a spontaneous and communal experience.
An Immersive Musical Journey
The concert began with vibrant energy and a strong rhythm, gradually softening into a more intimate and contemplative atmosphere. This gradual transition allowed the audience to move from exhilaration to deep listening, captivated by Maalouf’s and his ensemble’s virtuosity. Committed to humanitarian causes, he expressed solidarity with the Palestinian cause through a sensitive performance, reinforcing his message of humanity and peace.
A Visionary Artist
Nostalgic, festive, and engaged, Ibrahim Maalouf’s performance at Carthage showcased his innovative approach to music. Blending jazz, pop, rock, and Oriental influences, and incorporating dance and autobiographical storytelling, he created an immersive and deeply personal experience. His commitment to sharing his passion is evident in his Michel-Ange Academy, where he trains young trumpeters for free, two of whom, Mohammed and Shahrazad, joined him on stage.
Carthage, a Crossroads of Creativity
This concert reaffirmed the Carthage International Festival’s mission to celebrate cultural diversity. The 59th edition, continuing until August 21, will offer audiences the chance to discover more artists from France and beyond, in a spirit of sharing and creativity.
