Classical Meets Humanitarian: Omar Harfouch's «Concerto for Peace» Takes Center Stage at Paris' Iconic Theatre

France is known for its culture, and few places capture Parisian style like the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées. Famous for the many eminent musicians who have performed there, this landmark venue is now set to host another notable event: the "Concerto for Peace”, written by and featuring Omar Harfouch.

Harouch, a renowned composer, concert pianist and award-winning humanitarian, is spearheading this thought-provoking event, which is scheduled for September 18, 2024. Two days later, the same concerto will fly to Geneva to further spread its moving message of hope in the United Nations. As Harfouch prepares to take the stage alongside the Béziers Symphony Orchestra, the anticipation is high, and the countdown has begun.

«This isn’t just another classical music performance; it`s a defining moment, an initiative that intertwines classical music with global advocacy», — he declares.

The moment Harfouch found his love for music was around the same time he discovered his passion for philanthropy. Born in war-torn Lebanon during challenging times, Omar Harfouch has been living in France for over 30 years, where he has become a national media celebrity, humanitarian, champion of human rights as well as a globally recognized piano maestro. He is now using his influence to make a positive impact.

Melding Music and Global Advocacy 

«Concerto for Peace» is a hybrid piece that fuses classical music with awareness of critical global causes. Each movement is meticulously designed to spotlight specific issues like climate change or human rights. Harfouch sees these concerts as more than artistic expressions — they are strategic platforms for raising awareness and prompting action. After all, what is awareness without movement?

«Music has a unique ability to bridge divides and spark change», Harfouch says, — «Through "Concerto for Peace" we aim to harness this power to address significant global challenges and inspire positive action».

Partnerships with international organizations and local community groups are central to the initiative. The concerts are crafted both to be enjoyed whilst also educating and engaging audiences in meaningful conversations about the nature of peace.

Call for Peace: Pieces of the Puzzle

Success is a team effort, from raising awareness on societal issues to delivering a musical masterpiece on stage. In this case, Harfouch has joined forces with a 60-strong orchestra conducted by Mathieu Bonnin.

The Béziers Méditerranée Symphony Orchestra brings a poignant touch of hope to the table. Inspired by his childhood experiences, Harfouch channels his experiences into this 17-minute piece, aiming to catalyze an initiative for solidarity across the globe.

«The spectacular orchestra, the masterful Mathieu Bonnin, and everyone who pitched in behind the scenes made all this possible. Additionally, I am grateful to Houtaf Khoury, my childhood friend, whose talent helped orchestrate a large part of this concerto»,  — shares Harfouch. 

Apart from being a fierce friend to Harfouch, Khoury has a doctorate in composition and has earned a reputation as one of this century`s most acclaimed Middle Eastern composers. With no fewer than six symphonies and seventeen concertos, Khoury is known for «La Fantaisie Orientale» aside from the «Concerto for Peace».

A Pianist and His Purpose

The «Concerto for Peace» will bring together some of the brightest stars in classical music. With Harfouch, Khoury, and Bonnin at the forefront, Paris is set for an evening of musical excellence.

Harfouch’s«Concerto for Peace» exemplifies how classical music can be a powerful tool for social change. Through the combination of artistic excellence with advocacy, he is setting a new standard for how music can do more than merely tug at heartstrings. 

With his eyes on the future, Omar Harfouch remains committed to using his platform to prompt change through music, the world’s universal language.