The inaugural Dubai Classics festival was rounded off Saturday night with a sold-out performance by Majida Al Roumi at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
Unlike her peers, the Lebanese soprano’s career has not been heavily guided by industry trends. From albums to concerts, Al Roumi’s decisions seem to be guided by intuition. In a way, she is similar to the English soul diva Sade: albums are dropped suddenly without major fanfare and each performance is sold out without heavy promotion.
Backed by a large orchestra on Saturday, Al Roumi began gingerly: her voice sounded rather frail in Ohibouka Jiddan (I Love You Very Much) but she quickly warmed up as she showcased the varied musical styles she took on over the years.
But it was the achingly poetic ballads the crowd wanted. Matrahak Bi Albi (Your Place in my Heart) remains a classic – Al Roumi’s yearning vocals soared gently over the cinematic strings as she questioned the partner that spurned her: “I hope next time, you ask your heart about me / It tells you about my tenderness.”
More crowd favourites ensued. The stirring Am Behlamak Ya Helm Ya Lebnan (I Am Dreaming Of You, Oh Dream, Lebanon) had her compatriots at their feet.
Ibhath Anni (Look For Me) remains an example of her approach: the mixture of accessible melodies with sophisticated classical music.
“This is not just a concert,” Al Roumi told her audience. “I am glad to be here and share this happiness with you. Each happy moment is a gift and we need more of these moments in our region.”
Judging by the numerous standing ovations, it was a gift definitely well received.
sasaeed@thenational.ae
