Lebanese-French trumpeter Ibrahim Maalouf and his wife, singer and actress Hiba Tawaji, captivated audiences at Istanbul’s Harbiye Cemil Topuzlu Open-Air Theatre with a spectacular orchestral tribute to French love songs. On June 24, 2025, the couple presented a richly textured program that blended classical orchestration with contemporary musical elements, under the expert baton of Turkish conductor Murat Cem Orhan.
The evening unfolded as a heartfelt homage to romance, featuring timeless French classics such as “La Vie En Rose” and “Que Je T’aime.” Alongside these beloved melodies, the concert showcased innovative fusion pieces like “Les Moulins/La Bidayi,” which artfully combined Arabic musical motifs with European traditions. Maalouf described the selection as a diverse repertoire reflecting the music they cherish and perform alongside musicians they hold in high regard.
Opening the performance with a warm greeting in Turkish, Maalouf expressed deep appreciation for the enthusiastic local audience. He emphasized that this concert was a personal journey for both him and Tawaji, who shared their excitement about presenting an evening rich in romance and cultural depth. Their emotional connection was palpable throughout the night as they delivered stirring renditions of songs including “Toulouse,” “True Sorry,” and “Papaoutai.”
This Istanbul show marked the third staging of their collaborative program, following successful presentations in France and New York. A standout moment arrived when Maalouf surprised the crowd by inviting celebrated Turkish clarinetist Husnu Senlendirici onstage. This unexpected collaboration highlighted their shared musical heritage—Tawaji’s family having roots in Turkey before emigrating to Lebanon.
Senlendirici reflected on the unique bond he shares with Maalouf, noting that both their fathers were trumpet players, adding an intimate layer to their performance. Their fusion of Turkish and Lebanese musical influences created a seamless blend that resonated deeply with the audience. The concert closed on a tender note as Maalouf and Tawaji brought their young son Nael onstage to celebrate his fourth birthday, underscoring themes of love and family that permeated the evening.
The event not only celebrated the enduring charm of French love songs but also showcased music’s power to bridge cultures and generations. Through a combination of orchestral grandeur, modern interpretations, and heartfelt storytelling, Ibrahim Maalouf and Hiba Tawaji delivered an unforgettable night in Istanbul—a true celebration of love in its many forms.
