Hanan Haret

Morocco – In an era where rhythms change rapidly and musical tastes are constantly shifting, experiences that restore value to deep-rooted traditional arts stand out. At the forefront of these is the story of young Moroccan umaima El-Harem, who chose an unconventional path and embraced the oud along with its artistic and historical symbolism. By challenging clichés, she defends the idea that music is boundless and that those who remain true to themselves can speak in the language of the soul.

“I translate my emotions with it”

Moroccan Umaima El-Harem took up the oud, long associated in people’s minds with men, and broke the mold. Sitting calmly, she presses the oud against her chest, embracing it like an extension of her soul. With delicate fingers, she makes the strings vibrate; melodies flow, blending the fragrance of deep-rooted tradition with the intimacy of the moment. She smiles in the silence between notes and says: “The oud is my companion; with it, I translate my emotions.”

“It touches the heart”

Umaima El-Harem’s journey with the oud began with her deep passion for Arabic music. This music combined Morocco’s authentic sounds with the enchanting melodies of the East. She says: “Arabic music has always been associated with the oud. Its melodies fascinated me because they touch the heart and speak to the soul. That’s why I decided to learn it.”

Her artistic journey began at the conservatory, where she received academic training in solfège, oud techniques, and the study of sound waves. Thanks to her determination and passion, she won the national first prize in oud performance. Not stopping there, she also obtained a professional bachelor’s degree in music education. Umaima El-Harem sums up her education by saying: “This training not only improved my oud playing but also developed my teaching and artistic guidance skills.”

She founded her own ensemble

In 2018, Umaima El-Harem launched her own artistic project by founding the “Qatr En-Nedâ” (Dewdrop) Arabic Music Ensemble. This ensemble consists of distinguished male and female musicians, as well as a full choir.

The group focuses on reviving authentic Arabic music, from Morocco’s musical treasures to those of the East. For Oumaima El-Harem, this project is not just about art; it is also a living space that preserves musical memory and brings the past and present together in a contemporary style. Despite her deep love for art, Umaima El-Harem is also engaged in another field of struggle: today she is a PhD student in economics. She says: “Playing the oud is a long journey, requiring patience and effort. Balancing my artistic passions with my academic journey has been a real challenge for me.”

Although the oud has long been seen as a male-dominated instrument, Umaima El-Harem believes that women’s presence is increasing. She continues: “As a woman playing the oud, I received great support from my teachers and those around me. That’s why I don’t think the oud belongs only to men. Music knows no gender; it requires passion and creativity, and these belong to no one exclusively.”

A message to the youth

Oumaima El-Harem concludes her words with an inspiring message for young people wishing to step into the world of music: “This path requires discipline, patience, and perseverance. Balancing academic education with a passion for music is essential.”