SB15 Music Programme features 6 international artists, ensembles

This event is part of Sharjah Biennial 15: Thinking Historically in the Present— conceived by the late Okwui Enwezor and curated by the Foundation’s Director Sheikha Hoor Al Qasimi—which brings together over 150 artists and collectives from more than 70 countries for the 15th edition and 30-year anniversary of the Biennial. 

Performers include South African pianist, composer and leading Cape jazz performer Abdullah Ibrahim; singer, songwriter and pioneer of Malian Mandé blues Boubacar Traoré; Mauritanian singer, songwriter and master of the ardin [a harp-like instrument] Noura Mint Seymali; the pioneering collective of Tuareg musicians from the Sahara region of Mali, Tinariwen; Senegalese musician and Grammy Award-winning artist Youssou N’Dour; and contemporary sonic poet Aziza Brahim. 

The concerts, performances and recitals take place from 12 March to 27 May 2023 in three different venues: Sharjah Performing Arts Academy, Africa Hall and Cultural Palace.

“Throughout history, music has held a significant place in Sharjah and the region, and has naturally been an integral part of our public programming over the years. The artists featured in the SB15 Music Programme represent an incredible range of perspectives and approaches that resonate with the Biennial’s themes and reflect Sharjah Art Foundation’s mission to engage both local and international audiences with the work of artists, across disciplines, not just from our region, but from across the Global South,” said Hoor Al Qasimi, Director and President of Sharjah Art Foundation. 

The SB15 Music Programme is made possible with the generous support of Bank of Sharjah and Sharjah Government Media Bureau. Bank of Sharjah's sponsorship of the Sharjah Biennial aligns with the bank's focus on social responsibility and fostering cooperation among communities and connecting them through arts.

Commenting on this esteemed partnership, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Saud Al Qasimi, Chairman of Bank of Sharjah said: ‘We are immensely proud to partner with Sharjah Art Foundation, under the Chairmanship of Sheikha Hoor Al Qasimi, to support the international arts landscape from the heart of the cultural capital of the Arab world. The Sharjah Biennial is part of the emirate’s wider role in preserving, promoting and disseminating culture. Bank of Sharjah is committed to helping foster historic and cultural experiences in line with the UAE’s social and economic transformation vision.’