The Cultural Village Foundation in Doha, Qatar – Katara – is preparing to set sail on a journey through the region's maritime heritage with the 4th edition of the Al Nahma Musical competition. "Al Nahma," which translates to "traditional maritime singing," will be held from April 26th to 30th at the Katara Drama Theatre.
This unique contest aims to revive and celebrate the rich musical traditions associated with the seafaring history of Qatar and the wider Gulf region. In Qatar's past, pearl diving played a significant role in the country's economy and cultural identity, and Al Nahma serves as a platform to ensure these maritime traditions are not lost to time.
The competition is open to performers who can showcase their talents in two distinct categories: Work Arts and Lafjri Art. Work Arts encompass specific styles of singing associated with various maritime tasks, including "Duwari," "Al Yamal," "Al Khattab," "Al Jib," and "Al Makhmous." Lafjri Art, on the other hand, focuses on different regional melodies, such as "Adasani," "Haddadi," "Hassawi," "Al Mukhlafi," and "Al Bahri."
The competition promises to be a vibrant display of cultural heritage, with each contestant vying for a share of a substantial prize pool. First place will be awarded 50,000 Qatari riyals (approximately $13,800 USD), with prizes decreasing incrementally for second, third, and fourth place finishers. An additional "Judges' Appreciation Award" of 10,000 riyals (approximately $2,760 USD) will also be presented.
Katara's dedication to preserving Qatar's maritime heritage extends beyond the Al Nahma competition. The Cultural Village Foundation has been at the forefront of various initiatives designed to revive and celebrate this important aspect of the country's past. The Al Nahma competition serves as a significant addition to these efforts, providing a platform for both established and upcoming performers to showcase their talents and ensure the continuation of these time-honored maritime traditions.