The initiative reflects the ministry's commitment to "strengthening the role of Egyptian music as one of the most vital pillars of national identity and a cornerstone of Egypt’s soft power," the official statement reads.
The choice of 15 September was proposed by the National Centre for Theatre, Music, and Folk Arts to honour Darwish as a pioneering figure in modern Egyptian music.
"The initiative seeks to transform the occasion from a simple memorial into an annual national celebration that cements the role of Egyptian music in the collective consciousness, and highlights its cross-generational impact in shaping public awareness and expressing the genuine emotions and aspirations of the Egyptian people," the statement adds.
The inaugural Egyptian Music Day will feature a wide-ranging programme of events and activities across various venues in many governorates. Among the day's highlights will be the celebration of Sayed Darwish's musical legacy.
The celebration will also include honouring a group of distinguished musicians who have enriched Egypt’s artistic scene with their contributions and left lasting marks in the country’s cultural history.
Sayed Darwish
Sayed Darwish (17 March 1892 – 15 September 1923) is widely regarded as the father of modern Egyptian music and one of the most influential composers in the Arab world.
Born in Alexandria, Darwish transformed traditional Egyptian music by blending classical Arabic styles with Western musical elements and everyday language. His compositions addressed social and political issues, giving voice to the struggles and hopes of ordinary Egyptians during a time of national awakening.
His ability to capture the spirit of the people earned him the title Fannan Al-Shaab (The People’s Artist).
Despite his short life, Darwish left behind a powerful legacy of songs that are still performed and cherished today.
He composed many works for the theatre and collaborated with renowned playwrights. He also wrote patriotic anthems that galvanized the Egyptian nationalist movement—including the famous Bilady, Bilady, Bilady (My Country, My Country, My Country), which later became Egypt’s national anthem.
National Centre for Theatre, Music, and Folk Arts
The event's programming is coordinated by the National Centre for Theatre, Music, and Folk Arts, an institution established in 1980 to preserve Egypt’s artistic heritage through archiving and documenting artistic works, in addition to publishing research and archival materials.
The centre also organizes live performances and creative programs that bridge the past and the present, nurture new talents, and continue to serve as a cultural bridge between Egypt’s rich artistic legacy and its dynamic contemporary scene, paving the way for a vibrant and creative future.
The centre operates under the Cultural Production Affairs Sector led by theatre director Khaled Galal, and is currently headed by Adel Hassan.
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