Celebrated oud virtuoso and music researcher Ziad Ghrassa has launched an ambitious cultural project: the “Ziad Academy for Ma’luf and the Arts.” This new institution is devoted to safeguarding Tunisia’s traditional music while inspiring a fresh wave of artistic creativity.
Officially inaugurated this week in Tunis, the academy is set to become a vibrant hub for training and innovation across multiple disciplines. Its first phase brings together five creative clubs: Ma’luf, music, theatre, visual arts, and poetry — inviting young people to explore Tunisia’s rich musical heritage while experimenting with contemporary forms of expression.
Speaking at the launch, Ghrassa underscored the depth of Tunisia’s musical legacy:
“Ma’luf is more than just music; it is a living memory, a school of sensitivity, and a bridge linking past and future. Through this academy, we aim to preserve that spirit and open new doors for creativity.”
Coinciding with the project is the upcoming release of Ghrassa’s book, “The Method of the Tunisian Oud,” which outlines the stylistic foundations of the country’s oud repertoire. The publication is expected to serve as a key reference for students, researchers, and professional musicians.
The academy will host workshops, masterclasses, and performances, fostering collaboration between seasoned artists and emerging talents. Beyond music, its program will feature drama labs, art exhibitions, and poetry readings, enriching dialogue across artistic disciplines.
This initiative aligns with a broader national movement to rejuvenate Tunisia’s cultural landscape and position its heritage as a wellspring of creativity and economic opportunity. Enrollment for the first cohort is already underway, with classes beginning later this year.
By combining rigorous training with an openness to experimentation, the Ziad Academy for Ma’luf and the Arts seeks to cultivate a new generation of performers and creators ready to carry Tunisia’s artistic legacy forward.
TunisianMonitorOnline (Douha Essafi)
