Celebrating Emirati Heritage: Opera Singer Fatima Al Hashemi

Title: Emirati Opera Singer Fatima Al Hashemi: A Voice that Transcends Boundaries

Emirati opera singer Fatima Al Hashemi has emerged as a proud representative of her identity, captivating audiences with her performances in various theaters. Adorned in gowns that showcase her traditions, Fatima’s talent in fine art is undeniable.

Driven by a desire to enhance her singing abilities, Fatima has undergone extensive training and knowledge acquisition. She has proudly represented the United Arab Emirates in numerous events, showcasing her versatility by combining western and eastern rhythms in classical Arabic productions. As a creator, she prioritizes the preservation of her rights.

In an interview with Emirates Today, Fatima shared her journey since participating in the “From Home to Theater” competition organized during the COVID-19 pandemic. She has since represented her country in diplomatic and cultural forums, including a recent ceremony in Mexico. As part of the Sharjah delegation, she performed a concert alongside a Mexican opera singer and an orchestra from Mexico at the Mexico International Book Fair.

What sets Fatima apart in her musical career is her dedication to self-improvement from both technical and administrative perspectives, particularly in the music field within the UAE.

Fatima’s love for theaters is indescribable, as she finds solace in appearing on stage and communicating through her singing. She explained that operatic singing requires the use of the entire body, not just the voice, and does not rely on microphones. It is a form of storytelling that demands proficiency in both acting and singing. Fatima’s inclination towards opera and classical music is evident, but she also strives to combine elements of the East and West. Her collaborations with Berkley Abu Dhabi have resulted in songs that blend classical Arabic with the rhythm of the “waltz” and incorporate Western instruments with oriental rhythms.

Language plays a significant role in opera, and Fatima’s love for languages shines through. While she sings in French frequently, Italian holds a special place in her heart. She also appreciates languages such as Korean, Czech, Polish, and Russian, enjoying the process of learning their pronunciation and meanings.

Fatima’s performances are not complete without the Emirati abaya, which she uses to highlight her identity. She believes that regardless of the field of work, it is possible to preserve one’s identity. Collaborating with Emirati designer Maryam Amira, Fatima studied the character of Carmen, the heroine of a play, and chose to perform one of her songs. The details of the abaya were carefully selected to combine traditional and contemporary forms.

Fatima’s dedication to her craft extends beyond her own career. She expresses happiness at obtaining a scholarship from the Department of Tourism and Culture – Abu Dhabi to pursue a second master’s degree in music business management at the University of Berkeley. This field will equip her with the necessary knowledge to support future musicians in the Emirates, particularly in areas such as licensing and song production, which contribute to the preservation of intellectual property rights. Fatima firmly believes that artistic talent must be complemented by scientific knowledge for excellence in any field.

As a founding member of the Musicians Association in the Emirates, Fatima applauds the launch of this platform, which provides opportunities for local bands to participate in events. The association aims to shed light on the abundance of talented musicians in the country, often overlooked in favor of international artists. By promoting local talent, the association seeks to showcase the diverse musical landscape of the Emirates to the public.

Fatima Al-Hashemi’s journey from engineering to the music field is driven by her desire to convey a message through her voice. Currently pursuing a master’s degree in artistic business management, she aims to utilize her knowledge to support new talents. From her early days learning the accordion to her current mastery of the piano, Fatima draws inspiration from opera singer Maria Clas, admiring her determination to continue singing despite facing criticism.

In Fatima Al Hashemi, the UAE has found a remarkable opera singer whose voice transcends boundaries, blending cultures and preserving traditions while embracing the future of music.

How does Fatima Al Hashemi use her platform as an opera singer to promote women’s empowerment and cultural preservation, particularly among young Emirati women

The abaya and incorporated elements of her own heritage into her stage costumes. She aims to present a modern interpretation of Emirati fashion while staying true to traditional aesthetics.

In addition to her musical talents, Fatima is also an advocate for women’s empowerment and cultural preservation. She believes that through her performances, she can inspire others, particularly young Emirati women, to pursue their passions and break barriers. She actively engages with her audience on social media platforms, sharing her experiences and promoting cultural exchange.

Fatima Al Hashemi is indeed a remarkable Emirati opera singer who has successfully transcended boundaries through her voice and artistry. Her dedication to self-improvement, fusion of western and eastern musical influences, love for languages, and commitment to preserving her cultural identity make her a true ambassador of Emirati talent and heritage.