Algeria launches International Philharmonic Orchestra

Algeria has launched the International Philharmonic Orchestra of Algeria, following a decision by President Abdelmadjid Tebboune taken at a Council of Ministers meeting, Awras reported.

The launch coincided with the 72nd anniversary of the start of the 1 November revolution.

The orchestra will have 100 musicians, including Algerians living at home and abroad, young people and international musicians. Auditions for joining the orchestra were held in September at the Boualem Bessaih Opera in Algiers.

Maestro Amine Kouider leads the orchestra as its conductor and director of the project.

Kouider said in earlier remarks that young people would make up 70% of the members. International musicians would make up 30% of the orchestra.

Those international musicians would come from about 12 countries in Africa, Europe, the Arab world and America.

The project aims to show Algerian music on the international stage and to promote musical and cultural dialogue. It also aims to revive Algerian musical heritage through symphonic arrangements, performed alongside world music works for local and international audiences.

The project also includes a specialised academy to support young talent and develop artistic skills. It will allow a youth orchestra to be formed, to help train new musicians and prepare a new generation of players.