In 2025, we commemorate the 50th anniversary of the death of Umm Kulthum, the
unparalleled Egyptian star also known as “the Fourth Pyramid.” As the iconic face of pan-Arabism, she touched millions of hearts. Her voice resonated through the airwaves on Radio Cairo, a channel that was a symbol of Arab pride and unity in the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s. While the dream of Arab unity has faded over time, Umm Kulthum’s music lives on as a shared cultural heritage and a lasting unifying force.

In honor of this legend, Marmoucha Orchestra presents a special tribute:

“The Phonograph Changed Me”

A multimedia performance that highlights the lesser-known aspects of Umm Kulthum’s life and artistic vision. A unique focus on innovation and inspiration.

Rather than simply looking back at her greatest hits, this performance focuses on Umm Kulthum’s early years. Her statement, “The phonograph changed me,” emphasizes how the innovation of the phonograph allowed her to spread her exceptional talent worldwide. From the intimate live performances of her youth to the groundbreaking steps that made her a global sensation, this performance explores the music and influences that shaped her artistic development.

Led by director Toni Geitani and artistic director Arin Keshishi,
Marmoucha Orchestra presents this tribute as a continuous musical performance, engaging all the senses:

The expressive voice of Syrian soprano Mireille Bitar brings Umm Kulthum’s early
work to life. Acoustic music and live electronics weave the traditional with the modern, just as Umm Kulthum herself did. Visual presentations and narration bring her story closer, including a powerful act from Aida, the first opera performed in Arabic, in which Umm Kulthum shone. A tribute that breathes history.

This performance is not only a tribute to Umm Kulthum, but also a journey through a crucial period in Arab and global music history.

Immerse yourself in the stories, voices, and images that defined an era, and discover how Umm Kulthum’s exceptional vision made her the immortal icon she remains today. Don’t miss this unique tribute. Experience Umm Kulthum as you’ve never experienced her before—a musical and visual celebration of a life that continues to inspire generations.