Reflecting Egypt’s aim to position itself as a global cultural and artistic destination capable of hosting major events at its unique archaeological sites, the Pyramids Echo Festival launches its first edition.
The event is held between 24 and 30 November 2025 on a majestic stage at the foot of the Giza pyramids. A constellation of Egyptian, Arab, and international stars is taking part.
The founder and president of the festival, pianist and artistic manager Ahmed Abouzahra, shared that the festival is more than just an artistic event. Held under the slogan Crossroads of Arts and Cultures, and within the historical location, the festival reaffirms Egypt’s role as a bridge between cultures.
The festival’s artistic director, cellist Khaled Dagher, stated during the festival's press conference that the Pyramids Echo “is a dream for every Egyptian musician” and that the festival is designed to establish Egypt as home to globally significant music events.
The inaugural concert of this first edition was launched in grand style on 24 November with a performance by famous Chinese pianist Lang Lang.
Nicknamed the “rock star of classical music” — a pianist who has graced the best international stages — Lang Lang was accompanied at the Pyramids by the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra (RPCO). His concert featured works inspired by the Alexandrian composer Sayed Darwish, and known pieces from the repertoire of Chopin, Debussy, and Manuel de Falla — creating a dialogue between Egyptian heritage and Western classics.
Abouzahra revealed that performing in front of the pyramids was “a dream” for Lang Lang, who immediately accepted the invitation.
The participation of soprano Amira Selim was also celebrated as a powerful symbol, linking ancient vocal heritage to contemporary vocal art. Selim made her important global appearance with her participation in the internationally streamed Royal Mummies Parade (2021), during which she gave a haunting performance of the Hymn of Isis.
The soprano expressed her enthusiasm on her Facebook page: “Singing the Hymn of Isis — which brought me great recognition during the Royal Mummies Parade ceremony in 2021 — in the presence of the pyramids is an exceptional experience with a unique flavour.”
The evening of 25 November paid tribute to major Egyptian composers, with a concert that fused music by Hesham Nazih (renowned for the Grand Egyptian Museum ceremonies and the Golden Parade of the Pharaohs) and compositions by the late Ammar El-Sherei.
Continuing its international momentum, the festival maintains the East–West dialogue before the timeless backdrop of the pyramids.
A major moment took place on 26 November with the RPCO accompanying Lebanese singer Carla Chamoun under the baton of Ben Palmer. Praised for her versatile voice and eclectic repertoire, Chamoun presented a repertoire focused on Hollywood film music inspired by Egyptian civilization (Death on the Nile, The Prince of Egypt, Gladiator, The Mummy, and Lawrence of Arabia).
An evening of Arab song, held on 27 November, brought together two singers: Abeer Nehme (Lebanon), known for her classical and sacred repertoire, and Faia Younan (Syria), an artist known for her messages of hope. Accompanied by the Cine Symphony Orchestra conducted by Ahmed Oweda, the singers presented a mix of songs, including works by Abdel-Halim Hafez, Abdel-Wahab, and Fairuz.
The evening of 28 November highlighted the new generation of Egyptian talents who, while established outside the country, continue to achieve remarkable success on global stages. Among them are violinists Amira and Mariam Abouzahra, mezzo-soprano Gala El-Hadidi, bass-baritone Ashraf Sewailam, tenor Ragaa Eldin, and viola player Sindy Mohamed.
“Anyone who seeks global fame must turn toward the pyramid, a symbol of human achievement that continues to astonish the world,” Zahi Hawass commented at the press conference, adding that “music resonates in the same place where the workers who built the pyramids once sang.”
The festival concludes on 30 November with Kazakh singer Dimash Qudaibergen. Known for his extraordinary vocal range, his presence guarantees a spectacular finale, demonstrating the ambition of the festival through his unique fusion of pop, classical, opera, and traditional music.
The international presence on Egypt’s stages will continue throughout December. Abouzahra revealed that on 12 and 13 December, the prestigious St. Petersburg State Ballet Theatre of Boris Eifman will present two performances of My Fair Lady at the Arts and Culture City of the New Capital.
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This article was originally published in Al-Ahram Hebdo (French) on 26 November 2025, and additionally edited by Ahram Online.
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