18 April - Twelfth Day of MECMA
Technically demanding, emotionally charged, and impeccably paced, The Middle East Classical Music Academy (MECMA), held from the 6th to the 21st of April in the captivating location of Dubai, UAE, invites students from all over the world not just for instruction, but for transformation. Bringing a whole new level of classical music training to the Middle East region, this ambitious project features masterclasses, lectures, seminars, and nearly daily concerts led by internationally renowned musicians and pedagogues.
On Friday, 18 April, MECMA 2025 presented a packed schedule of exhilarating masterclasses and a standout concert performance featuring academy students, allowing participants to gain valuable insights and hands-on experience from seasoned professionals.
The schedule featured a series of orchestral masterclasses held in the Sky Zayed Room on the 40th floor and the Emerald Room on the 5th floor from 10 am to 3 pm by professors Raisa Musahadzhaeva, Batirdzhan Smakov and Ekaterina Zaboronok. These lectures focused on different sections of a traditional orchestra, emphasising various specialisations for almost every instrument.
Individual masterclasses also continued across various disciples, focusing on delivering students detailed feedback and pushing them to improve their musical expression and confidence. Students made their way to the cultivated surroundings of Room 1 Dalia, Room 2 Dania and Room 3 Sapphire, located on the 5th and 6th floor to engage in enlightening lectures led by professors Luisa Sello (Italy), a Flute Miyazawa Artist and an Ambassador of Music and Italian Culture, supported by the Italian Ministry of Culture; renowned pianist and winner of more than 50 national and international competitions, Giuliano Mazzoccante (Italy); and celebrated violinist and pedagogue Zohrab Tadevosyan (Spain/Armenia), among others.
After conducting a highly engaging lecture on the grand piano, Mazzoccante expressed his enthusiasm about being involved with MECMA, saying, ''I am very proud to be part of this amazing project and to work with wonderful students. MECMA is a unique experience that is difficult to find elsewhere. First of all, the connection between professors and artists who perform in concerts, teach, and live in such an incredible place is invaluable, creating an atmosphere where everyone feels happy to be part of something special and unique. What is incredible for me is that every night, we have the opportunity to listen to concerts by some of the most renowned and talented musicians from around the world, not just from Europe or the United States. As a professor, I also have the privilege of meeting students from various countries and cultures.''
He added, ''The topic of my lesson was to explore the connection between written scores and emotions. One legato in music has so many different ways to be played. It depends on the composer, the historical period, and the type of composition. For instance, a sonata differs from a prelude, and a waltz is also different. I appreciate that all the pianists who come here are very sure about their future; they want to become true musicians. I have students of all ages, even very young ones, who demonstrate their desire to be musicians through their playing. This creates an excellent atmosphere for teaching.''
But it was the day’s concert that truly crowned the experience. During the late afternoon hours, a fabulous daytime show featuring the renowned Kazakh State Symphony Orchestra, the Republic of Kazakhstan's leading musical group, and MECMA's Orchestra-in-Residence took place. The musical event showcased the talents of soloist Sergei Dogadin, recognised as one of the best violinists of his generation, under the baton of celebrated conductor Valid Ağayev, an Associate Professor at Çukurova State Conservatory, along with select academy students who had the opportunity to perform and showcase their skills and newfound knowledge in front of their peers.
At the end of the exhilarating day, a participant of MECMA, Aitore Azamatuly, remarked, ''I would really recommend this academy because it offers a great opportunity to play alongside orchestras and enjoy beautiful pieces performed by some of the greatest ensembles, such as the Tokyo Philharmonic, the Tokyo Orchestra, and our own Schubert Orchestra in Spain. It's been an amazing experience. I've been to Dubai three times, and each time I come, I enjoy it a lot. The skyline with its towering buildings is truly impressive."
For the latest news about MECMA's daily happenings, visit our official website for exciting updates.
