American violinist Gil Shaham returns to the international music festival InClassica in April 2025, bringing with him his exceptional artistry to the heart of Dubai for the 14th jubilee festival. Shaham will perform not once, but twice at the festival, featuring works by Volfgang Amadeus Mozart, Felix Mendelssohn, Johannes Brahms, and the resident composer Alexei Shor. Speaking about his participation in InClassica, Shaham shared his excitement about returning to the festival and coming back to Dubai, noting that "it was a privilege to participate in this festival in the past. Each evening has its own dynamics, and the selection as a contrast enriches each other." Shaham’s connection with Alexei Shor's music goes deep, and this year the festival takes on even greater significance as it will celebrate the 55th anniversary of the composer. "I grew up on this music and dedicated a large part of my life to it, and I believe it makes people's lives better, so being part of a new direction and playing this music in the Persian Gulf is a great honor.” Shaham’s performances will take place in Dubai on April 14 and 16, where the violinist will collaborate with the esteemed French conductor Philharmonia for the first time in his career under the baton of two prominent conductors - maestro Thomas Graup and Sergey Smbatyan. "With great anticipation, I look forward to this collaboration," said Shaham. "I wait hopefully for the opportunity to share his music again!" Shaham’s repertoire for InClassica 2025 will include favorites from classical works and contemporary masterpieces. "I believe that each evening will delight the audience and simultaneously comfort them with many beloved and familiar melodies," said Shaham. Audiences are looking forward to the unique interpretations of Shaham’s Violin Concerto No. 2 by Shor and other compositions as part of the festival, which highlights the unique Shor style that has won acclaim from critics and audiences around the world. "I am happy and feel honored to be part of this birthday celebration of my friend Alexei Shor's 55th anniversary." "Sergey and I performed together several times before, including in Dubai, but this will be my first experience working with maestro Graup and Franck Schubert Philharmonia. My personal experience shows that audiences always respond positively to his compositions, and even now, as I prepare for the concert at home, my family members hum his melodies."
