From Baghdad to Madrid – A Musical Journey Bridging East and West
The Iraqi National Heritage Music Ensemble, led by Maestro Alaa Majeed, shone brightly in a major musical concert hosted at the National Music Hall in Madrid. The event was organized by the Embassy of the Republic of Iraq in Spain, and attended by a distinguished audience of ambassadors, diplomats, Spanish cultural and media figures, in addition to members of the Iraqi community.
The ensemble presented a rich artistic program featuring traditional pieces and authentic songs that reflected the depth and diversity of Iraq’s musical memory. Through this journey, the audience moved between the melodies of Baghdad, the colors of the Iraqi maqam, and the contemporary atmosphere of Madrid—an evening that carried a blend of nostalgia, joy, and belonging.
The concert witnessed remarkable engagement from both Spanish and Iraqi audiences; the pieces were met with warm applause, and some members of the Iraqi community could be heard singing along to well-known traditional songs, reflecting a profound longing for Iraqi music.
There were also deeply emotional moments during the performance of soulful pieces, with the audience visibly moved as the musicians showcased their skill and harmony.
The highlight of the evening came during the performance of the collaborative composition “From Baghdad to Madrid,” which brought together the Iraqi spirit and Spanish flamenco melodies in an innovative artistic experience. The ensemble was joined by the renowned Spanish flamenco dancer (Anbia), who performed a flamenco dance titled “From Baghdad to Madrid.” The audience rose to their feet in applause for this tableau that successfully blended Eastern magic with Andalusian rhythm, culminating in an exceptional moment of interaction.
In his speech during the event, the Ambassador of the Republic of Iraq to Madrid, Dr. Saleh Al-Tamimi, affirmed that music has the power to build bridges of communication between peoples. He stressed that peace can only be achieved through dialogue and cooperation, noting that Iraq, as a land of civilizations and arts, carries a human message aimed at promoting understanding and openness in the region and the world.
The concert concluded with widespread acclaim for the ensemble and Maestro Alaa Majeed, and for the refined image they presented of Iraqi music. Attendees continued taking photos and exchanging words of admiration, leaving everyone with a bright impression of Iraq’s musical heritage and its enduring ability to touch hearts no matter how far the distance.
