The piano is a storyteller, a keeper of emotions, and
a bridge between worlds. Few artists harness its expressive power as profoundly
as Award-winning Composer and Pianist Steve Barakatt whose
compositions blend classical sophistication, cinematic depth, and contemporary
elegance.
The Néoréalité World Tour presents a selection of pieces from the
acclaimed album alongside audience-favorite works from his vast repertoire. The
evening features live performances of some of his most iconic anthems,
including the deeply moving “Lullaby, The UNICEF Anthem” and “Ad Vitam
Aeternam.” These movements, rich in allegorical depth, explore the profound themes
of life’s journey and human resilience. Enhanced by stunning visual
projections, this unique performance will offer an immersive and transcendent
musical experience.
Join us on a deeply moving musical odyssey—where every note carries
emotion, every melody tells a story, and every performance becomes a timeless
experience.
Steve Barakatt, a Canadian artist of Lebanese heritage, is an award-winning composer, pianist, music producer, and creative director with a career spanning over three decades. He has collaborated with leading artists, record labels, studios, brands, and organizations on hundreds of global projects. As a concert pianist, Barakatt has performed more than 500 live shows across five continents, captivating audiences with his emotive and intricate compositions. His music has been featured in hundreds of TV programs and international sports broadcasts, including the FIFA World Cup and Formula 1 Grand Prix. A prolific recording artist, Barakatt has sold over five million albums worldwide, and his music catalogue has amassed over 250 million views on YouTube. In addition to his success as a performer and recording artist, Barakatt is the world’s most recognized composer of official anthems. His works include Lullaby, The UNICEF Anthem, which was launched across five continents and even broadcast from the International Space Station, symbolizing a powerful message of unity and hope. Steve Barakatt is a Knight of the National Order of Quebec and has been recognized by several heads of state. Barakatt is a Universal Music MENA artist, with his music catalogue represented by Universal Music Publishing Group.
Read more
Introducing the Piano
The piano, also known as the pianoforte, emerged during the 18th century, swiftly ascending to prominence as the quintessential instrument in Western art music. Defined by its stringed keyboard and hammer action, capable of nuanced dynamics from soft to thunderous, the piano has long been a cornerstone of musical education and amateur practice. Since its inception, the piano has transcended boundaries, leaving an indelible mark across diverse genres, from classical to contemporary pop and rock. As a stalwart member of the percussion family, the piano's adaptability and emotive range have endeared it to musicians and audiences worldwide. Its storied legacy and ubiquitous presence across musical landscapes serve as a testament to its enduring allure and profound impact.
Piano’s Story - From Invention to Evolution
In 1709,
Bartolomeo Cristofori, an esteemed Italian harpsichord maker, revolutionized
music with his invention of the piano. Dubbed the "gravicembalo col piano
e forte," Cristofori's creation could produce both soft (piano) and loud
(forte) sounds by employing hammers to strike the strings, heralding a new era
of musical versatility.
Over time, the piano underwent a series of transformative
changes, becoming more accessible and affordable to the masses. Cristofori's
addition of the piano pedal and Emánuel Moór's experimentation with double
keyboards expanded its capabilities. The 19th century saw the advent of the
upright piano, compact and practical, democratizing access to music.
As technology advanced, so did the piano. The incorporation of digital innovations birthed the digital piano, capable of producing an array of sounds and seamlessly connecting with digital devices. The internet further revolutionized access to piano music, with online resources offering virtual keyboards and interactive learning platforms.
Music for change
Often described as a universal language, music has been a tool for social change and has the ability to unite people across nations for a common cause. Over the years, international organizations such as the UN agencies, including UNICEF, UNESCO, and WHO have utilized powerful anthems and supported music initiatives to communicate messages of hope in turbulent times. In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, UN bodies launched the anthem, ‘Rej’et El Sineh (Learning is back)’ in the Middle East and North Africa to advocate for young people’s return to education while maintaining the health guidelines. As many as 110 million children were affected due to lockdowns, threatening the future of learning. Parallelly, the Marley family re-recorded one of Bob Marley’s most seminal works, ‘One Love’ as a global fundraiser appeal for the UNESCO’s Reimagine campaign, that worked towards building an empathetic world for future generations.
