Celebrations marking Golden Jubilee of modern Eritrean begin at Cinema Odeon

Celebrations marking the Golden Jubilee of modern Eritrean music began yesterday at Cinema Odeon, here in the capital. Asmara, 3 December 2011- Celebrations marking the Golden Jubilee of modern Eritrean music began yesterday at Cinema Odeon, here in the capital.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, the chairman of Eritrean Musicians Association, Mr. Mohammed Osman, indicated that many members of the Eritrean Musicians Association who have been making due contribution to the nation’s music are young individuals born before the establishment of the Association.

Musical performances highlighting the three stages of musical development of Eritrean music, namely 1960 to 1975, 1975 to 1991 and 1991 to the present were featured during the opening ceremony.

A marching band presented performance yesterday in the streets of the capital, marking the event.

Meanwhile, an art, and musical instruments exhibition opened at the Expo Grounds today. The Administrator of the Central region, Mr. Kahsai Gebrehewet opened the exhibition that will stay until December 4.  The musical instruments being displayed at the exhibition are the ones used by various music groups in the country dating back to the 1940s.

Mr. Jaber Mahmoud, member of the coordinating committee, pointed out that the exhibition includes the foundation of the Eritrean Musicians Association and the history of the country’s music before the establishment of the Association, ancient musical instruments and pictures. He called on participants to make vigorous efforts in preserving such national treasures.