The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

La Fête de la Musique is the first musical
event in the world that takes place in almost 130 countries (350
cities) on the same day. For the past thirty years, the festival has
entertained thousands of international audiences with its rich musical
repertoire and a diverse array of acclaimed artists.

Organised by the French Institute in Egypt (also known as the French Cultural Centre)
since 1999, La Fête de la Musique has brought international artists to the country
such as Souad Massi, Hindi Zahra and Tiken Jah Fakoli.

In 2010, La Fête de la Musique was held at
the Cairo Citadel against the backdrop of the city’s incredible horizon,
featuring musical acts such as the very talented Souad Massi.

This year, La Fête de la Musique will
celebrate its 30th anniversary at the Cairo Citadel on Tuesday, June
21st, featuring acclaimed French singer Bernard Lavilliers and
world-renowned oud player Naseer Shamma.

Bernard Lavilliers
has produced over twenty albums, is currently touring France and is set to play
seven concerts at the famous Olympia Hall in Paris. Lavilliers is known for his ‘tropical music’
from Brazil, the West Indies and salsa; the kind that makes you dance like mad
and celebrate its rhythm. 

Without doubt,
Naseer Shamma is one of the world’s most renowned and respected oud players;
blending traditional music with his own modern and original compositions. As
the creator and director of Beit El Oud El Arabi, Shamma has inspired and
educated generations of talented oud players to follow his path. His recent
composition ‘If the People Want Life’ was inspired by and dedicated to the
Egyptian revolution, as well as the region-wide Arab uprising. 

Be sure to
catch this exceptional musical night at the Cairo Citadel, on June 21st
at 8PM. Admission is free, so you make sure you get to the Citadel early to
guarantee a seat or at least a spot on the grass. A free shuttle bus service
will be offered at the entrance of the Citadel to take you all the way up to
the concert venue. For more information, contact The French Institute.