Running from 24 February to 22 March 2026, the Al Bustan International Festival returns with a deeply human theme: Family and Friends. Across 16 live performances, the festival explores musical bonds that transcend generations, borders and genres — from legendary family dynasties to intimate duos, sibling ensembles and artistic friendships forged on stage.

Hosted primarily at the Emile Bustani Auditorium, with select concerts at churches and cultural venues across Beirut, the 2026 edition blends classical masterpieces, opera, jazz, folk and contemporary interpretations, reaffirming Al Bustan’s place as one of the region’s most respected cultural platforms.

Two Families, One Voice: A Powerful Opening Night

The festival opens on Tuesday 24 February with an emotionally charged concert titled “Two Families, One Voice,” led by the iconic Trio Khalife. Marcel Khalife joins his sons Rami and Sari Khalife, alongside guest musicians Charbel Rouhana and Nadim Rouhana, for a program that moves fluidly between poetry, memory and resistance. With pieces such as “Oumi,” “Requiem for Beirut” and “Y’a Bahriyeh,” the opening night sets the tone for a festival rooted in shared heritage and collective emotion.

Classical Excellence and Family Lineages

The following weeks spotlight some of the world’s most celebrated classical performers. On 27 February, rising stars Hayoung Choi and SongHa Choi take on Brahms’ Double Concerto alongside the Yerevan Youth Orchestra, followed by Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 — a bold and dramatic pairing.

March brings violinist Renaud Capuçon to the festival for two standout evenings: Goldberg Variations for Trio on 2 March and an all-Brahms recital the following night. These performances highlight musical lineage not just by blood but by influence and mentorship.

Opera, Sacred Music and Grand Voices

Opera lovers are in for a treat on 4 March with a fully staged performance of Puccini’s Gianni Schicchi, featuring Sir Bryn Terfel in the title role and an international cast conducted by Gianluca Marcianò. This is followed by a deeply moving sacred concert on 6 March, as Dvořák’s Stabat Mater fills Saint-Joseph Jesuit Church, performed by soloists, choir and orchestra in a setting that enhances the work’s spiritual intensity.

Crossing Genres: Folk, Jazz and Tango

The festival also embraces genre-crossing performances that celebrate friendship and cultural dialogue. Highlights include Makedonissimo on 10 March, led by pianist Simon Trpčeski, blending Macedonian folk traditions with classical virtuosity, and The Tango Family on 17 March, where Piazzolla and Gardel meet dance and drama.

Jazz takes the spotlight on 20 March, with Julian Joseph performing alongside his brother James Joseph, delivering a soulful evening of jazz standards infused with improvisation and warmth.

A Poetic Grand Finale

The festival concludes on Sunday 22 March with Jahida Wehbe: The Poets Family, a powerful musical tribute inspired by the words of Mahmoud Darwich, Gibran Khalil Gibran and Talal Haidar. Conducted by André Hajj, the finale brings together music, poetry and identity — a fitting close to a festival built on connection.

Beyond the Stage

In addition to concerts, the festival offers free lectures at Sursock Museum, masterclasses with international artists and special iftar dinners at Al Bustan Hotel on concert nights, creating a full cultural experience that extends beyond the auditorium.

Tickets are available through antointicketing.com, with special student rates available.
For the full program and booking details, visit albustanfestival.com.

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