Internationally acclaimed trumpeter and composer Ibrahim Maalouf headlined the fifth evening of the Festival International de Carthage on July 26, showcasing his celebrated album TOMA (Trumpets of Michel‑Ange) in a richly orchestrated performance.
The French‑Lebanese artist, with 19 studio albums and multiple accolades including four Victoires de la Musique and a César Award, led a powerful ensemble featuring a drummer, two bassists, a saxophonist, and five fellow trumpeters
Opening with the instrumental journey surrounding his TOMA project, Maalouf threaded a coherent narrative through his set—a marriage-themed concept inspired by his wedding with singer Hiba Tawaji, as he revealed in a pre-show briefing.
The performance unfolded in thematic segments—proposal, vow, celebratory dance—encouraging audience interaction and participation.
Talent shone across the stage with brass solos and ensemble performances. A guest dancer enlivened the show with African, Oriental, and gypsy-inspired choreography. A Tunisian touch featured as well, with an adapted intro from the classic “Sidi Mansour” woven into a performance tailored for this Carthage concert.
The evening took an emotional turn with a tribute to the late Ziad Rahbani, featuring Maalouf’s rendition of “Saalouni El Nass,” performed the same morning Rahbani passed away.
Between high-energy sequences and more contemplative interludes, Maalouf shared personal stories—his upbringing, his father’s influence, his childhood in Lebanon and relocation to France. “I sought refuge in music to belong,” he told the audience, deepening the emotional resonance of his artistry
songlines.
The concert, lasting over two hours, offered a multi-generational journey through Tunisia’s musical heritage—an immersive fusion of identity, innovation, and collective memory. It stands as more than a concert—it was a profound cultural dialogue between past, present, and future.
TunisianMonitorOnline (Douha Saafi)
