BAHRAIN’s traditional bands are hoping for more government support and programmes for youth as they strive to preserve and celebrate the country’s intangible heritage.
Four of the kingdom’s most popular bands performed as part of the 2023 Spring of Culture, which has been widely celebrated since 2006 as it continues to propel the artistic and cultural movement forward.
Thousands of people swayed to the tunes and rhythms of the Mohammed Bin Fares Band, Shabab Al Hidd, Dar Bin Harban and Dar Shabab Al Riffa Band as they showcased traditional music from Al Fjiri, Al Ardhah, Al Khammari and other local arts.
“Traditional music and performances are an integral part of Bahrain’s heritage, history and culture,” head of Dar Shabab Al Riffa Band Raed Bahar told the GDN. The band was established in 1976.
“The traditional art that Riffa is famous for is the story of ‘grinding seeds’ which we have incorporated into our performances with the help of both male and female Bahraini performers,” the 45-year-old added.
“It is basically about wheat kernels that are ground with its shells falling off in the process and this story has been passed down to us by our forefathers. We are using Bahraini performance arts to make our younger generations aware of our traditions, it is key to ensure their survival.
“Bahraini traditional arts are our heritage and identity which we are proud of, so no efforts should be spared to ensure their continuation in the right way for future generations.”
According to Mr Bahar, who has been chairman of the band since 2013, efforts are underway to educate children about local arts. He added that involving youth in cultural programmes will stop them from foraying into immoral activities while also fostering a sense of patriotism and ‘community among the members’.
Mohammed Bin Fares Musical Band head Aref Bucheeri said members of their group have incorporated modern instruments and elements in traditional performances to attract the younger generations.
“In the past, traditional performances were done by a singer while different rhythms were incorporated, but we have added new production methods and instruments while maintaining the authenticity of the art,” said the 49-year-old who has been a part of the band since its inception in 2001.
“Youngsters are keen to learn this art as we have seen their desire to participate in our concerts and practice sessions and we have included many of them during our trainings.
“We would like to extend an open invitation to our youth who have an interest in traditional Bahraini performance arts to come to us and we are more than prepared to teach them and proudly pass down our heritage.”
Mr Bucheeri, who has been heading the band since 2008, said it recently shared the stage with renowned Dutch violinist and conductor Andre Rieu, who expressed an interest in collaborative work. He stressed the importance of sharing the art and its beauty with the rest of the world.
Shabab Al Hidd Band member Abdulrahman Burshaid echoed similar sentiments. The 50-year-old has been a part of the band since its inception in 1999.
“We have families bringing their children to practise with us and that’s an incredible feeling,” he said.
“However, we would be happy if the government offers more support as we can go ahead with more stage shows and programmes. We are currently spending money from our pocket owing to our love for the art.
“Our music tells us where we come from and it’s important to incorporate it in our educational curricula to ensure Bahraini children know their heritage and are proud of their identity.”
Dar Bin Harban Band was founded in the mid-1940s in Muharraq by Mohammed bin Jassim bin Harban and the group continues to be instrumental in reviving a myriad of local traditional arts at Dar Bin Harban in Muharraq.
For more information about the bands visit @shabab_hidd, @dar.al.shabab, @dar_binharban or @culturebah.
reem@gdnmedia.bh
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