Algerian Radio
The 7th edition of the National Festival of Young Talents in Operatic Singing kicked off yesterday evening, Sunday, in Algiers, with a distinctive musical performance featuring young singers from among the winners of previous editions of this annual competition dedicated to discovering new talents.
The concert was held at the Promenade des Sablettes (Hussein Dey) as part of the celebrations commemorating the 64th anniversary of Independence Day and the restoration of national sovereignty. It was brought to life by a selection of young artists who performed a diverse medley of songs highlighting Algeria's rich musical heritage across its various genres and styles.
In his opening speech for this edition, the Director of Youth, Sports, and Leisure for the Wilaya of Algiers, Mr. Mohamed Amine Saad, emphasized that this musical event, which coincides with the commemoration of the 64th anniversary of Independence Day, serves as a "true incubator for young talents" in the operatic arts.
The spokesperson also stated that for this 7th edition, the festival brings together "63 young talents from 36 wilayas competing for the top three positions in this annual competition."
In the same context, the official highlighted the importance of this event in promoting Algerian musical heritage and discovering new talents, adding that the festival includes a training program for the participants, alongside performances in public squares and concert halls across the capital.
Accompanied by an orchestra conducted by Mohamed Mehannek, eight young talents from previous editions performed a medley of songs spanning various genres and rhythms, showcasing the diversity and richness of Algerian musical heritage.
During the opening evening, young singer Fani Talbi delivered a brilliant performance of "Ayema sber ur ttru" (Do Not Cry, My Dear Mother), one of the masterpieces of the artist and mujahid Farid Ali (1919–1981), in which he denounced French colonialism.
Houda Ghounoumat also performed "Goumari," a song inspired by the art of "Ahellil"—an ancient poetic and musical genre native to the Gourara region in southwestern Algeria, which is inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The audience warmly received and engaged with the performance.
In honor of the mujahid and artist Akli Yahyatène, one of the icons and masters of Kabyle music, Meriem Akouchi excelled in performing the song "Tamurt-iw Tamurt Idurar," breathing new life into this piece that celebrates attachment to the homeland.
The festival's activities, organized by the Directorate of Youth, Sports, and Leisure for the Wilaya of Algiers, will continue until July 15. Participants will perform before a jury of professionals who will select the winners during the closing ceremony scheduled to take place in Algiers.
This festival aims to discover, train, and support young talents, focusing on musical quality and diversity, while fostering an openness to Algerian classical and vocal forms.
