Tribute to Abdelwahab

The radiant soprano Fatma Said performs three songs by Mohammed Abdelwahab, a 20th-century musical and cultural icon of her homeland, Egypt.

A prolific composer, Abdelwahab wrote innovative music that celebrated Egyptian culture and patriotism while introducing new sounds, rhythms, and musical influences. 

Recorded during a live concert in March 2023 with the Konzerthausorchester Berlin and conductor Alondra de la Parra, this EP showcases orchestral arrangements by James Whitbourn of his songs “La mosh ana-l-abki”, “Kan agmal yom”, and “Nashid al-qassam”, which Fatma describes as “a love letter to Egypt.” On the project, she says: “Performing Abdelwahab’s music fills my heart with pride and musical fulfillment. The knowledge that this enchanting music hails from Egypt gives me an overwhelming sense of gratitude, connecting me to my rich cultural heritage that transcends any notion of borders and time.”