First conservatory opens in Saudi Arabia

The Kingdom's first higher music education institution, first international music academy, the Nahawand Center, has opened in Taif, Saudi Arabia, according to Arab News.

The university signed a co-operation agreement with The Gnesin Russian Academy of Music. The head of the Nahawand Center, Abdullah Rashad, said the arrangements aim to improve the competence of those working in the Kingdom's music sector. "It also aims to support talents and practitioners in the field of music and arts, which is in line with Saudi Vision 2030," he said.

The partnership will also include organising cultural events between Saudi Arabia and Russia.

Participants at the signing ceremony toured the academy's facilities, including the piano and vocal department, where some students performed, and the oud and oriental singing departments.

According to a statement from the management of the Taif Conservatory, the institution will focus on developing educational programmes and musical research, as well as exchanging teachers, students and joint academic work.