ALGIERS, May 1, 2026 – The 15th International Cultural Festival of Symphonic Music opened on Thursday at the Boualem-Bessaih Opera House in Algiers, with the Czech Republic as guest of honour.
The opening concert brought together the Algiers Opera Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Lotfi Saidi, and the South Czech Philharmonic, led by Jan Talich, in a programme combining international classical works and Algerian compositions.
The event was attended by Culture Minister Malika Bendouda, Communication Minister Zoheir Bouamama, Czech Ambassador Jan Czerny and festival commissioner Abdelkader Bouazara, along with cultural figures and members of the public.
The programme featured works from the global symphonic repertoire, including Antonin Dvorak’s “New World Symphony”, alongside orchestral arrangements of Algerian songs such as “Ya Rayah” and “Echtah Echtah Ya Taous”.
This year’s edition pays tribute to late Algerian composer Noubli Fadel (1951-2025) for his contribution to national and Arab music.
The festival brings together participants from 21 countries and runs until May 7, with additional performances scheduled in Oran and Constantine.
Workshops for young musicians and students, led by Algerian and international instructors, are also planned, alongside an exhibition dedicated to visual artist Ahmed Nacef at the Opera House.
