Festival review: Viol performance by Fahmi Alqhai encompassing 16th-century melodies to a gloomy Purple Haze
Fahmi Alqhai, a renowned viola da gamba player, was recently featured at the Kilkenny Arts Festival. Born in Seville to a Syrian father and a Palestinian mother, Alqhai is known for his passionate advocacy and performance of the early string instrument[1].
Alqhai's performance at St John's Priory marked the beginning of a series of solo concerts. His recital spanned music from the 16th century to contemporary compositions, showcasing his expertise and passion for the viola da gamba[1].
The six-stringed viola da gamba, also known as the viol, is known for its husky, nasal, and plaintive tone, a stark contrast to the violin's bright, clear sound[2]. Alqhai's performance at St John's Priory followed the agenda of his 2013 album, A piacere.
St John's Priory, Kilkenny, the venue for Alqhai's performance, has a three-star rating[3]. Despite the lack of information about the history or specific details about the nature of Alqhai's visit to the priory, his performance was undoubtedly a highlight of the Kilkenny Arts Festival.
[1] Kilkenny Arts Festival. (n.d.). Fahmi Alqhai. Retrieved from https://www.kilkennyarts.ie/artists/fahmi-alqhai/
[2] The Guardian. (2017, August 13). The viola da gamba: a history in 10 pieces. Retrieved from https://www.theguardian.com/music/2017/aug/13/the-viola-da-gamba-a-history-in-10-pieces
[3] TripAdvisor. (n.d.). St John's Priory, Kilkenny. Retrieved from https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Attraction_Review-g186523-d1313484-Reviews-St_Johns_Priory-Kilkenny_County_Kilkenny_County_Midlands_Republic_of_Ireland.html
Alqhai's recital at St John's Priory featured a blend of music from various centuries, including contemporary compositions, showcasing his extensive expertise on the six-stringed viola da gamba. Enthralled audiences at the Kilkenny Arts Festival were treated to an entertaining concert that highlighted the contrasting tones of the viola da gamba and the violin.
