Students from Beech Hall School in Riyadh recently came together for a large-scale orchestra and choir performance celebrating Saudi Arabia’s historical journey and its aspirations for the future. The event, held in May 2026, featured participants ranging from kindergarten age to year 11, representing a diverse array of nationalities.

The production, titled “From Desert Sands to Global Horizons,” showcased a blend of global and Arabic music, including classics such as “Ya Dar.” The program unfolded as a narrative centered on two travelers traversing the desert, symbolizing the Kingdom’s evolution. The concert opened with Sting’s 1999 hit “Desert Rose,” representing the early days of Saudi Arabia, before moving into “Ya Rayeh,” a song by Algerian artist Rachid Taha.

Dana Abu-Goura, superintendent of Beech Hall School, described the theme of travel as reflective of the international community’s role in Saudi Arabia’s ongoing development. “It’s about traveling as well, because all the expats came to Saudi to be part of this progression,” she said.

The performance further highlighted the impact of the nation’s Vision 2030 reforms and its increasing openness, illustrated through a rendition of “A Whole New World” from the Disney film “Aladdin.” The finale featured “Ya Dar,” inspired by a recent performance of the piece by the Saudi Orchestra in New York. At this point, students entered the auditorium carrying flags from 49 different countries, underscoring the multicultural dimension of the school and the Kingdom.

The staging included Arabic poetry recited between musical pieces and incorporated visual elements inspired by the architectural heritage of Saudi Arabia’s Hijazi and Najdi regions, with set designs echoing traditional rawasheen carved windows.

Paul Pacifico, CEO of the Saudi Music Commission, attended the event and praised the young performers for their engagement with Saudi musical heritage through the ambitious production. He noted the influence of the national orchestra’s recent concert series on the school’s performance, emphasizing the importance of such cultural initiatives in fostering youth connection to music.

The entire production was prepared within two months. According to Abu-Goura, managing the extensive involvement of students across various age groups presented the greatest challenge. The event was held before an audience composed of parents and guests, who responded enthusiastically to the concert.