Concerto for Peace by Omar Harfouch in the Words of Orlando Bloom

In challenging times, music becomes a path to peace — a message powerfully conveyed by Omar Harfouch with his unique musical project, Concerto for Peace, performed in Paris, the Vatican, and now at the Dubai Opera. The evening, dedicated to harmony and unity, was graced by the presence of Orlando Bloom, UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and guest of honour.  

Following the performance, Orlando Bloom sat down for an exclusive interview with HD FASHION TV, where he shared his thoughts on the power of music, the importance of peace, and his unforgettable experience being part of this extraordinary event.

The “Concerto for Peace” by Omar Harfouch is a unique project that celebrates peace through music. What do you think of the performance and its purpose?

The performance was remarkable, and I was deeply moved. Omar Harfouch is such a passionate man, and his love for music is evident to the audience. It’s wonderful to unite people through music for the purpose of peace. It’s such a generous gift. It was an amazing experience and completely unexpected, as well. It’s a very beautiful approach that sets an example for others and shows how liberated, free-spirited Omar is.

Which part or moment of the concert stood out to you the most, and why?

Well, there were so many magic moments! When Omar played “Tripoli”, I could really feel his heart within the music. Also, there was a unique moment with members of the Chico and the Gypsies (the original band played under the name Gipsy Kings in the 80s - ed. note), that joined Omar on the scene to play together “Dubaï, me amor”, which beautifully united cultures and styles. They brought such a vibrance! It was so unexpected and gorgeous.

In your opinion, what gives music its unique power to transcend cultural differences and bring people together?

Historically, music always united people. Peace is initiated in music because it is a universal language that we share as human beings. Music breaks all barriers, and it creates bridges for emotion, for creative joy. You sit in the audience, and you experience the emotion of music, its heart and soul. Music speaks to people’s emotions, regardless of their background. No matter where in the world you come from you can relate to a piece of music. It’s a remarkable encounter for anyone to experience. Omar has curated music specifically to promote peace, you can't help but feel it as an audience member. This spirit within the music is palpable. Everybody could feel it, and there's no pretence. Sometimes with classical music, you can feel very separate. But “Concerto for Peace” was so inclusive of everybody. And this is the best part of it.

You are well-known for your humanitarian work, particularly as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador. Do you see any similarities between your mission and Omar Harfouch’s use of art to promote peace?

A shared vision for creating peace is at the core of Omar’s vision. Similarly, a peaceful society ensures the safety and protection of children in communities worldwide. When we talk about the wellness or the well-being of children around the world, what's required at its core is peace, a peaceful environment for children to grow up in, to feel safe in. And so through music, Omar was creating a platform for peace, which is essential for not just women and children, but society at large. 

You have been working as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador for quite a while now (since 2009), travelling the world and meeting local communities. And why is it so important for you? 
I was introduced to the organisation more than 20 years ago, and having been on countless field trips around the world, I've seen the work firsthand that UNICEF does in the field to support women and children who are most in need. Children suffering from war, where UNICEF sets up psychosomatic care spaces, places, where children can just come to play, which is something that we forget. And so they dance, they listen to music, they build Legos. They get a chance just to be children again, which is essential when you are surviving these things, like in Ukraine. 

Dubai is the stage for the “Concerto for Peace,” a city known for its diversity and exchange. What do you think about Dubai’s importance as a platform for global cultural initiatives?

Dubai and the UAE excel at hosting global cultural events, highlighting music, fashion, cinema, sports, and entertainment. Dubai is a natural destination for global initiatives like this one. And I think it’s very important for the region and the world.

Music often plays an introspective and unifying role. Is there a song or musical work that, for you, symbolises peace or hope?

For me, Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy” is the obvious and best choice. When I was at drama school studying to be an actor, we did a play called “Mephisto”. The director insisted that we as actors learn this song. And then as we entered the stage from all over the auditorium, we were singing “Ode to Joy”.  It has such a powerful, palpable feeling of peace, unity, and presence.

Do you play any musical instruments? And if you had to learn one, which would you choose to contribute to a musical project like “Concerto for Peace”?

I used to play the viola as a child, and I think it would fit beautifully within such a performance. The viola is an interesting choice because it's not the violin that gets the glamour, but it's such an important part of the orchestra because it holds it. I also loved the saxophone tonight, and I played it a little when I was younger. There are so many other instruments that I love, such as the oboe. I love classical music, and you can hear all of the instruments come across in their own personal way, they have their own signature. 

After attending the “Concerto for Peace,” what message of peace or hope would you like to share with the audience?

There was something Omar said during the concert that really touched me: one person can save a life and save humanity. And I believe one person in kind has the power to change the course of history, either through saving a life or through building bridges for peace, not tearing them down. I hope that as audience members we will take this message of peace back to our communities, to our homes, to our countries and become little architects of peace and unity. Today, this is what matters most.

Orlando Bloom's heartfelt reflections on music’s power to unite and inspire peace lingered long after the final note. The magic of the *Concerto for Peace* was not only heard but also seen — brought to life by Hamza Mekdad’s stunning 3D installation, symbolizing the sun and warmth of the East, and conductor Mathieu Bonnin’s electrifying energy. Their combined artistry, along with Omar Harfouch’s passionate performance and the unexpected appearance of Chico & the Gypsies, turned the evening into a powerful celebration of hope, harmony, and shared humanity.  

Stay tuned for the full interview with Orlando Bloom and exclusive behind-the-scenes moments, coming soon on our official YouTube channel

Text: Irina Matsepliuk