Ziad Rahbani — son of the legendary Rahbani school and the voice of ordinary people — carried in his works the concerns of the nation, expressing issues of love, politics, and justice through an artistic language that was both satirical and deeply realistic, unlike any other.
In his honor, the Public Relations and Communications Department at Beirut Arab University organized a musical concert conducted by Maestro André El Haj and his orchestra, titled “A Tribute to Ziad”. The event celebrated his memory, reviving his legacy that continues to resonate in the hearts of generations and recalling the genius who turned theater and music into a space for truth and beauty.
The concert was attended by Members of Parliament Ibrahim Mneimneh and Melhem Khalaf, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Al Bir Wal Ihsan Foundation and Chairman of the University’s Board of Trustees Dr. Ammar Houry, President of the Lebanese Artists Association Dr. Nizar Daher, poet Henry Zoghaib, President of the Businessmens’ Federation for Support and Development -IRADA- Mr. Louay Malas, University Secretary-General Dr. Omar Houri, the university’s deans and directors, along with a large audience of Ziad Rahbani’s friends and admirers.
The evening began with a speech by Mrs. Zina Ariss, Director of Public Relations and Communications at the University, who said:
“Lebanon and the Arab world have lost a towering artist — a voice that never compromised, a mind devoted to humanity and justice. His music blossomed into creativity within our hearts and enriched our minds with culture; his plays made us laugh until we felt the pain.
Ziad Rahbani was not merely a musician or playwright, but a mirror reflecting the people’s struggles and dreams. With his words and melodies, he built a unique artistic school that made him an icon of Arab creativity and a proud extension of the Rahbani legacy.”
The musical celebration then commenced under the direction of Maestro André El Haj and the choir, as the stage came alive with 25 of Ziad’s songs, taking the audience on a nostalgic journey through his remarkable and distinctive world of artistry.
iConnect
