About the event
Experience cello elegance through Baroque, Romantic and cinematic masterpieces
- Abu Dhabi Festival 2026 features a recital by Elham Al Marzooqi, the UAE’s first professional female cello soloist, with pianist Sooyeon Jun. The programme explores the breadth of the cello repertoire, bringing together works from the Baroque and Romantic periods with celebrated melodies from the world of cinema. Through a carefully selected programme, the performance highlights the versatility of the cello and the distinctive partnership between cello and piano.
The recital begins with works by Johann Sebastian Bach and Antonio Vivaldi, whose compositions represent the elegance, balance and musical clarity of the Baroque tradition. The programme then moves into the Romantic era with Johannes Brahms, showcasing the cello’s rich tonal character and expressive possibilities.
The evening continues with works and song-inspired arrangements by Franz Schubert, Camille Saint-Saëns and Sergei Rachmaninoff, reflecting the instrument’s ability to convey both intimacy and emotional depth. The final section features iconic themes by Ennio Morricone and George Gershwin, bringing together classical artistry with recognisable cinematic and popular influences.
With her distinctive musicianship and interpretation, Elham Al Marzooqi continues to contribute to the UAE’s evolving classical music landscape. Presented as part of Abu Dhabi Festival 2026, the recital offers audiences a programme that celebrates collaboration, musical heritage and the enduring versatility of the cello.
The recital begins with works by Johann Sebastian Bach and Antonio Vivaldi, whose compositions represent the elegance, balance and musical clarity of the Baroque tradition. The programme then moves into the Romantic era with Johannes Brahms, showcasing the cello’s rich tonal character and expressive possibilities.
The evening continues with works and song-inspired arrangements by Franz Schubert, Camille Saint-Saëns and Sergei Rachmaninoff, reflecting the instrument’s ability to convey both intimacy and emotional depth. The final section features iconic themes by Ennio Morricone and George Gershwin, bringing together classical artistry with recognisable cinematic and popular influences.
With her distinctive musicianship and interpretation, Elham Al Marzooqi continues to contribute to the UAE’s evolving classical music landscape. Presented as part of Abu Dhabi Festival 2026, the recital offers audiences a programme that celebrates collaboration, musical heritage and the enduring versatility of the cello.
Getting there
Zayed National Museum
Al Saadiyat Island - Cultural District - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
