Tarek Abdel Hakim Museum: A Year of Musical Excellence

On December 27 and 28, the Tarek Abdel Hakim Museum in Jeddah commemorated its first anniversary under the theme “Heritage Meets the Future in Harmony.” The event opened with the powerful notes of the Saudi national anthem, composed by Tarek Abdel Hakim on the trumpet in 1947, filling the museum’s halls to welcome guests. Artists Burhan and Ahmed Al-Alawi performed a selection of iconic musical pieces, followed by vibrant traditional performances such as Al-Khubaiti and Al-Yanbouawi, presented by local cultural troupes.

Preserving the Legacy of a Musical Pioneer

Established as part of the Ministry of Culture’s mission to enrich Saudi Arabia’s musical landscape, the museum celebrates the legacy of Tarek Abdel Hakim, hailed by Mohammed Abdu as “the founder of music in Saudi Arabia,” and described by poet Prince Badr bin Abdulmohsen as “a very significant figure in Saudi music”

The museum is home to a treasure trove of Abdel Hakim’s personal and professional archives, including his musical instruments, photo albums, books, documents, and recordings. It also showcases his compositions for legends like Umm Kulthum and Mohamed Abdel Wahab, offering visitors a glimpse into the history of Saudi music.

Beyond that, the museum hosts year-round workshops, programs, and live performances, serving as a hub for Saudi music enthusiasts and a bridge between past and present.