By Peter Townson
Violin students from the IMC, where young musicians have been contributing to the local cultural scene
Qatar has made a concerted effort to develop a rich cultural landscape in recent years, according to a local music expert, who expressed his pride at having played a part in supporting the growth of music appreciation in the country.
The International Centre for Music (ICM), established in Qatar 10 years ago, has now taught a large number of music enthusiasts who continue to participate in concerts and contribute to the development of music appreciation.
ICM director Marwan al-Werr told Gulf Times that he had witnessed significant growth in the arts and culture in Qatar during his time here, and that teaching young musicians represents a major part of this continued development.
“For the past 10 years, art performances have grown tremendously throughout Qatar,” said al-Werr, adding “we are proud to say that we became a part of this ‘big change’ by developing people, adults and young ones to share their talents, and giving them the opportunity to express themselves through music and art.”
“With ICM, adults and young ones are able to express themselves through music by performing in public,” he said, adding “we believe that by providing the highest calibre of music education to students from around the world, we may achieve their fullest potential as artistes.”
The centre currently employs 10 professional music teachers, teaching students piano, violin, guitar and flute as well as music theory, ballet, jazz and art.
The centre offers tuition and examinations from the well-known Royal Associated Board of Music (ABRSM), based in London.
Since humble beginnings, the ICM has taught over 400 students in the past 10 years, and now receives around 100 students for ABRSM examinations every year.
Piano remains that most popular instrument, explained al-Werr, who noted that classes for children between the ages of five and seven are the most oversubscribed age groups.
He explained that the centre’s students take part in three annual concerts at the ICM, while also performing with other local groups such as the Doha Community Orchestra, American School Orchestra, Doha College Orchestra and many other musical ensembles.
Al-Werr expressed his hope to see lessons for more instruments available in the future, emphasising the centre’s commitment to hiring the highest quality staff to lead the students here.
“The quality of the service we offer is integrally linked to the quality of the staff we recruit,” he said, adding “all our teachers have first degree level qualifications or above.”
He explained that earlier this year, a number of students passed their examinations with distinction, including Anjaly Ajithan Pattathil, Jythsna Prakash and Chanel Bowen in grade 1, Angad Singh and Nadia Abdul Hadi in grade 2, Ardianty Dhatmawan in grade 4, Kinza Asim in grade 6, and Mu Ji Hwang and Dravinda Adeera Putri Sudanika in grade 7.
The centre follows a similar academic year to schools in Qatar, and will reopen for lessons after the summer, in September.
