A tribute to Fairuz | Nai Barghouti & Amsterdam Andalusian Orchestra

On January 28, 2023, Nai Barghouti performed with the Amsterdam Andalusian Orchestra at Meervaart in Amsterdam (NL), in a concert dedicated to Fairuz—one of the most recognized voices in Arab music. The performance brought together classical Arabic music and orchestral arrangements.

The program featured a selection of Fairuz’s songs, from early pieces like Ahh Dali Sar to newer interpretations such as Li Fairuz, composed by Nai Barghouti herself as a tribute to Fairuz.

Fairuz
Fairuz is a Lebanese singer whose career began in the 1950s. Her voice and music have played a major role in shaping Arabic music. Her legacy continues to inspire new generations of artists. This project is a tribute to that ongoing impact.

Nai Barghouti
Nai Barghouti is a Palestinian singer, composer and flutist. She blends traditional Arabic music with elements of jazz and classical music. Her work often reflects a deep connection to cultural and musical heritage.
Early on, Nai preferred Egyptian legends, finding Fairuz’s style too 'soft and simple’. At 13, struggling to sing Fairuz, she realized how deceptively difficult the songs were. By 16, Nai fell in love with Fairuz’s music, captivated by its depth and emotion. She spent years studying Fairuz’s voice, uncovering the immense skill behind each phrase. Fairuz’s seeming simplicity masked extraordinary vocal mastery and emotional expression.Through this journey, Nai’s admiration deepened into reverence. Fairuz’s influence shaped Nai’s understanding of what true vocal artistry demands.To Nai, Fairuz is not just a legend, but a timeless teacher.

Amsterdam Andalusian Orchestra
The Amsterdam Andalusian Orchestra (AAO) is a musical platform - at the intersection of tradition and innovation. What began as a tribute to the musical heritage of Al-Andalus grew into an internationally acclaimed orchestra creating groundbreaking productions. Through these musical stories with repertoire from Granada to Baghdad, the orchestra manages to touch a wide audience.

The orchestra consists of 22 musicians. With passion and craftsmanship, the AAO combines classical Arabic styles - from North African to Sharqi - with influences from flamenco, jazz, folk and European classical music. The musicians also bring genres such as Sufi, malhoun and folk repertoires to sound with telling precision and passion.

Performed by
Abderrahim Semlali (violin), Jaafar Lougmani (violin), Mohamed Al Mokhlis, Hannelore de Vuyst (violin) , Hessel Moeselaar (viola) Ahmed El Maai (qanun), Haytham Safia (oud), Marianne Noordink (nay/flute), Daniel van Huffelen (double bass), Xavi Torres (piano), Ahmed Khaili (percussion), Ruven Ruppik (percussion), Youssef Chair (percussion).

Setlist
Ya Za’iri – Rahbani Brothers (1999)
Ams Intahayna – Rahbani Brothers (1999)
Ishar – Lyrics: Rahbani Brothers; Music: Mohamed Abdelwahab (1968)
Ana wa Shadi – Rahbani Brothers (1968)
Habbo Baadon – Lyrics: Rahbani Brothers; Music: Ziad Rahbani (1975)
Ahh Dali Sar – Lyrics: Bad Khary; Music: Sayed Darwish (1919)
Autumn Leaves – Lyrics: Ziad Rahbani; Music: Joseph Korma (1975)
Zahrat al Mada’en – Nai Barghouti (2022)
Fe Ainayka – Nai Barghouti (2022)
Ba’dak Ala Bali – Rahbani Brothers (1974)
Sa’altak Habibi – Rahbani Brothers (1999)
Ya Lur Hubuki – Lyrics: Rahbani; Composer unknown (1975)
Li Fairuz / Concerto de Aranjuez – Lyrics: Joseph Harb; Tribute: Omar Barghouti; Music: Joaquín Rodrigo (1939)
Bint Al Shalabiya – Traditional (Fairuz version: 1955)
Nassam Alayna El Hawa – Rahbani Brothers (1967)
Ah Ya Helu – Traditional folk (composer and year unknown)