Maestro Amal Al-Qarmazi: A Trailblazing Female Conductor

Early Life and Education

Maestro Amal Guermazi comes from a family that loves art. She studied at the Tunisian National Conservatory of Music, and then obtained a doctorate in music from the Sorbonne University in France.

International Performances

Amal Al-Qarmazi currently performs on the most important international stages, as a skilled and professional orchestra conductor. She has performed on the most important international and Arab stages, contributing to reviving the Arab artistic heritage at the “Legends of the Arabs” concert in Paris, and held concerts in Carthage, Germany, and America. She is the conductor of the Lebanese “Muzika” band, and one of her most recent concerts was performed by the artist Rami Ayach in France.

Her Journey as a Conductor

I started my career as a conductor without holding a baton and was overwhelmed with awe when I first touched it with my fingers.

Maestro Amal Al-Qarmazi

Next year, she will give a concert at an American university. She holds the baton in her hand, indicating to the orchestra the scale and musical notes they must follow. Why did she delay carrying this baton? She responds: “I began my mission as an orchestra conductor without carrying a baton. I felt as if it was still too early to crown my experiences with it. In my view, it is a distinctive mark that carries a certain sanctity and great responsibility. It is true that I am deeply immersed in the sciences of music, and I studied for about 20 years, in order to be at the required level in it, but at the same time I hesitated to carry it, and I was overwhelmed with feelings of amazement when I touched it with my fingers for the first time.”

Style and Attire

I use the type and style of the clothes I wear on stage as a weapon to defend the femininity of the maestro woman.

Maestro Amal Al-Qarmazi

The story of the baton with Amal Al-Qarmazi has its own story. She received it as a gift from one of her friends. It is white, made of wood, and has a circular handle in the same color. “People in our region do not give the musical baton much importance. But in fact, it carries many meanings for the conductor of the orchestra. What I mean here is not related to feelings of vanity and grandeur, but rather it accompanies the mission of the conductor as a tool that indicates his position first. It also facilitates the process of managing the orchestra, so that each player knows what his specific mission is through how he moves it.”

Challenges and Triumphs

When I conduct the orchestra, my feelings are mixed and my adrenaline levels rise, making me feel the most beautiful moments of my professional life.

Maestro Amal Al-Qarmazi

As for the white cane in particular, she says, “It reflects the stage lights and shines in the dark and dim lighting on the stage.” Before she takes the stage, she feels a sense of responsibility. “There are a lot of preparations that precede this performance. I study and write down every detail that makes up the musical pieces to be played. Presenting high-quality music at the required level requires all of that from me. People come to the concert to enjoy the music and travel with it to a world of dreams. It is my duty to provide them with what fulfills their desire. What is required of me is to provide a distinctive product that they will like.”

Overcoming Doubts

I have felt doubts from my male colleagues about my abilities…they do not understand the potential of women nor their opinions regarding their musical vision.

Maestro Amal Al-Qarmazi

Respect for Lebanese Musicians

Amal Al-Qarmazi admires many Lebanese musicians, including Maestro Harout Fazlian. She also enthusiastically follows the conductor of the Lebanese Orchestra, Lebanon Baalbaki. She does not forget to mention the Rahbani brothers and their distinctive music, which has become famous in the East and the West. She adds: “Their music is wonderful, and I consider the Rahbani brothers a musical school. As for Ziad Rahbani, he is a musical genius in my opinion. His works simply enter the heart, and stem from dazzling and wonderful ideas.”

Conclusion

Maestro Amal Al-Qarmazi is a true trailblazer in the world of music, breaking down barriers and paving the way for future generations of female conductors. Her dedication, passion, and perseverance have earned her a reputation as one of the most respected and accomplished conductors in the industry.

FAQs

Q: What inspired you to become a conductor?
A: I was inspired by my love for music and my passion for sharing it with others.

Q: What challenges have you faced as a female conductor?
A: I have faced many challenges, including doubts from my male colleagues and the lack of recognition for women in the music industry.

Q: How do you prepare for a performance?
A: I prepare by studying and rehearsing the music, as well as getting to know the orchestra and the audience.

Q: What advice would you give to young musicians?
A: I would advise them to follow their passion and never give up on their dreams, even in the face of adversity.