Algiers – The fourth edition of the national competition “Sheikh Abdelkrim Dali Prize” for the best Andalusian musical performance will take place from November 25 to 29 in Algiers. This year’s event will also pay tribute to the late Algerian musician Nour-Eddine Saoudi, the organizers announced on Wednesday.
Speaking at a press conference, Wahiba Dali, President of the Sheikh Abdelkrim Dali Foundation, revealed that the event will be held at the Boualem Bessaih Opera House and the Abdelkrim Dali Music School in Kouba, under the supervision of the Ministry of Culture and Arts. She emphasized the initiative’s goal of preserving Algerian Andalusian music, fostering young vocal talents, and ensuring the continuity of this rich cultural heritage.
Tribute to Nour-Eddine Saoudi
This edition will honor the life and artistic contributions of Nour-Eddine Saoudi, who passed away in July 2024. The event will feature a commemorative ceremony with his family and friends in attendance, highlighting his pivotal role in promoting Algerian music and his contributions to organizing the Sheikh Abdelkrim Dali Prize.
The Competition
Scheduled from November 26 to 28 at the Abdelkrim Dali Music School, the competition will see eight finalists showcasing their talents:
- Sarah Ben Messaï (Boufarik)
- Faïz Hafayed (Biskra)
- Sarah Ben Krizi (Mostaganem)
- Ahmed Ramy Gherbouj (Skikda)
- Amel Ahlam Laroussi (Mostaganem)
- Mohamed Ben Dahmane (Mostaganem)
- Rymissa Kaid Youssel (Cherchell)
- Asma Ait Chabane (Mostaganem)
The contestants will be accompanied by the Abdelkrim Dali Foundation Orchestra, conducted by Professor Hadi Boukoura. A jury chaired by Sheikh Saleh Boukli Hassan (Tlemcen) and including esteemed musicians from Constantine, Tlemcen, and Blida will evaluate the performances.
Opening and Closing Ceremonies
The opening night, scheduled for November 25 at the Boualem Bessaih Opera House, will feature performances by Leila Borsali and singer Hamidou. The closing ceremony on November 29 will be headlined by artists Myriam Benallal and Samir Toumi, supported by the Abdelkrim Dali Foundation Orchestra under the direction of Leila Kebir.
Leila Borsali will perform selections from the “Dziriya Nuba,” composed in the Sahelian style by the late Nour-Eddine Saoudi, along with pieces from her show “Rahla” (Journey).
Preserving Algeria’s Andalusian Heritage
Since its inception in 2016, the “Sheikh Abdelkrim Dali Prize” has aimed to promote young talents and celebrate the legacy of Abdelkrim Dali (1914–1978), a master of Andalusian music. By nurturing emerging artists, the competition contributes to preserving and enriching this centuries-old musical tradition.
For more information, visit: DZWATCH.DZ
Author: Nor-Eleslam
Sheikh Abdelkrim Dali Prize, Algerian Andalusian music, Nour-Eddine Saoudi, cultural heritage, young talents
