Classical music enthusiasts in the UAE are in for a spectacular treat this November, as the legendary Egyptian composer Omar Khairat is set to grace the stage at the 43rd Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2024). On November 9th, at 8:00 pm in the grand auditorium of Expo Centre Sharjah, Khairat will captivate the audience with an unforgettable performance, accompanied by his orchestra, taking attendees and fans on a journey through some of his most iconic works, celebrated across Arabic cinema and television. In a special session, he will also reflect on his remarkable artistic journey that has spanned over 65 years.

An exclusive conversation

Legendary composer Omar Khairat will offer his audience an intimate look into the remarkable journey that shaped his illustrious career, as chronicled in his book ‘The Rebel: The Life of Omar Khairat.’ In this exclusive session, Khairat will unveil the many facets of his creative genius, exploring how his musical upbringing profoundly influenced his artistic vision and broader outlook on life. He will delve into the pivotal moments of his career, where he worked alongside the most distinguished artists and directors while sharing the challenges and defining experiences that inspired the creation of his iconic, timeless compositions.

Tickets can be availed via: https://sharjah.platinumlist.net/event-tickets/95403/concert-of-world-renowned-musician-omar-khairat

A living example of the connection between literature and art

Khoula Al Mujaini, General Coordinator of SIBF, said: “Welcoming the renowned composer Omar Khairat to this edition perfectly aligns with the theme, ‘It Starts with a Book’ It emphasises that books are the primary source of inspiration and creativity. Khairat embodies this connection, transforming his vast knowledge and cultural heritage into timeless melodies resonating with generations.”

She continued: “This event also reflects the deep commitment of the UAE and Sharjah to the power of art in enriching lives. Through this exceptional concert, we invite the audience to explore the profound relationship between art and literature and how these two worlds intertwine. It highlights that reading is the foundation upon which all creative and intellectual journeys are built across every field of human knowledge and art.”

A storied career of timeless works

Born in 1948, Omar Khairat is one of the most renowned composers in the Arab world. In 2023, he was honoured as the ‘Cultural Personality of the Year’ at the 17th Sheikh Zayed Book Award, a tribute to his decades-long career and his creation of timeless musical works that continue to resonate across the region. Khairat’s musical journey began at an early age when he studied piano at the Cairo Conservatoire under Italian professor Caro, later advancing his studies in music composition at Trinity College, London. This diverse education helped shape his distinctive musical identity, enabling him to emerge as a composer with a unique vision marked by depth, richness, and fluid melodies.

Khairat has excelled as a composer and pianist and has also made significant contributions to film and television scores, creating music that has left an indelible mark on the collective memory of Arab audiences. His breakthrough in this field came with his score for the film The Arrest of Fatma in 1984, and since then, he has composed music for over 100 films, television series, and plays.