A pioneering step towards documenting Saudi musical heritage
In a significant step aimed at preserving and documenting the rich artistic heritage of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Music Commission announced the publication of two new books: “Musical Pieces” and “A Memory of Sports Songs.” These publications join the “Memory of Saudi Music” series, an ambitious project that seeks to archive and document the artistic works that have formed an integral part of the Saudi cultural and social consciousness over the decades. This initiative is part of the Ministry of Culture’s strategy to safeguard intangible heritage and provide a reliable resource for future generations of artists, researchers, and enthusiasts.
Cultural context and Vision 2030
The Music Commission was established in 2020 as one of 11 cultural bodies under the Ministry of Culture, with the aim of regulating and developing the music sector in the Kingdom. The “Saudi Music Memory” project reflects the Commission’s commitment to achieving the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which places great importance on strengthening national identity and enriching local cultural content. By documenting classical and folk musical works, not only is history preserved, but a solid foundation is also built for a thriving and sustainable music industry capable of competing regionally and globally. These publications follow other books in the series that addressed national songs, Ramadan and Hajj chants, and Eid songs, underscoring the project’s comprehensive approach.
The importance of new releases and their expected impact
Both books possess unique artistic and historical value. "Musical Pieces" serves as an academic and practical reference, not only listing the names of famous pieces but also providing their complete musical notation (musical scores), enabling Saudi and international musical groups and orchestras to perform and present these works in a modern style while preserving their original spirit. "The Memory of Sports Songs," on the other hand, documents an important aspect of popular culture, as sports songs are linked to moments of victory and national joy, forming an integral part of the history of Saudi clubs and national teams. These publications are expected to contribute to:
- Locally: Providing reliable educational resources for music students and researchers, and reviving timeless works of art in the community's memory.
- Regionally and internationally: Presenting Saudi musical heritage to the world in a scientific and systematic manner, and promoting cultural and artistic exchange with other countries.
Digital access to knowledge
To facilitate access to this artistic treasure, the Music Commission has made electronic copies of all publications in the “Saudi Music Memory” series available on its official website. This step ensures the content reaches the widest possible audience both within and outside the Kingdom, and underscores the Commission’s commitment to keeping pace with the digital transformation in disseminating knowledge and culture. These books thus become essential resources for anyone interested in music, including readers, researchers, writers, and specialists, ensuring the continuity of this artistic legacy and its inspiration for future generations.
