As the COP28 UAE unfolds its pivotal discussions on climate action, the Resonance Climate Concert emerges as a beacon of harmony and advocacy with the support of Chic Icon as the Media Associate. Set to enrapture the audience at the renowned Dubai Opera on December 6th, this musical extravaganza boasts the backing of the United Nations and promises a night of environmental consciousness through the universal language of music.
Crafted by Stewart Copeland, founder and drummer of the legendary British rock group The Police, this concert transcends genres with the participation of three-time Grammy Award winner Ricky Kej. Heralding a repertoire that has resonated in over 35 countries, Kej brings his unparalleled musical prowess to this global stage.
At the center of this melodic endeavor is Anuradha Juju from India, lending her voice to the climate cause with the theme song “Chal Phir Sajaayein.” Recorded at the iconic Abbey Road Studios in London with the 80-piece Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, this anthem marries the eloquent lyrics of Nilesh Mishra with the composition mastery of Ricky Kej and the executive production finesse of George Jacob.
As the Firdaus Orchestra, under the baton of conductor Monica Woodman, steps into its second season, the Resonance Climate Concert promises not just a night of music but a journey of environmental consciousness. Guided by master of ceremony duo Tariq Qureishy and Lukwesa Burak, the concert serves as a testament to the power of art in echoing the urgency of climate action.
As a global initiative is taking center stage at the iconic Dubai Opera tomorrow, Dr. George Jacob, the visionary behind the Resonance Climate Concert, shares insights into this groundbreaking event in an exclusive interview with Chic Icon’s CEO, Alina Dyachenko.
Chic Icon: George, is this your first experience organizing such a colossal concert?
George Jacob: Indeed, Alina. While we’ve organized smaller events before, Resonance is our maiden venture at this grand scale. With COP28 being a global affair, we felt the need for a global platform to advocate for climate diversity.
Chic Icon: Bringing together celebrity artists and a high-profile audience must have been challenging. Can you shed light on the process?
George Jacob: Identifying climate-aligned talent was tricky, but once we had our artists confirmed, we added a unique local touch. The challenge then shifted to logistics—selecting venues like the Dubai Opera, arranging keynote speakers, and navigating the complexities of a busy COP event, further intensified by conflicts in the Middle East.
Chic Icon: What’s the main message of Resonance Climate Concert?
George Jacob: Resonance emphasizes that our Earth is in dissonance, requiring harmony more than ever. The concert aims to bring balance, echoing the Sustainable Development Goals logo’s fractal nature. Through music, we seek to provide a healing touch to our planet.
Chic Icon: The concert program seems diverse. Can you elaborate?
George Jacob: Absolutely. We’re featuring a climate-focused theme song in Hindi, symbolizing the restoration of balance. Another song is dedicated to peace and the world’s children affected by war. We are bringing in different musical flavors with classic music, rock hits from The Police band and Hindu artists.
Chic Icon: Will you be doing the Live streaming of the concert?
George Jacob: While the entire program won’t be live-streamed, selected pieces, especially the climate song, will be available on YouTube post-concert. Tickets can still be purchased at thebuyourpride.com to support climate advocacy.
Chic Icon: How the concert will contribute to the cause?
George Jacob: All the proceeds and sponsorships from the concert will go towards strengthening climate literacy initiatives in the region and beyond.
Chic Icon: What are your thoughts on COP28 and its initiatives?
George Jacob: The UAE’s bold actions amid its fossil fuel-driven reality are commendable. COP28 has spurred unprecedented pledges and commitments from nations, inspiring a collective effort against climate change. Dubai’s rapid development attests to the city’s prowess in meeting challenges head-on.
Chic Icon: Beyond Resonance concert, what are your future plans for climate initiatives?
George Jacob: Our organization BayEcotarium is based in San Francisco, and has been dedicated to environmental causes for 42 years. We’re constructing the world’s largest climate museum there. While Resonance might inspire future climate concerts, our core mission lies in creating awareness through museums worldwide.
In the symphony of Resonance, George and his team orchestrate a powerful message for climate action, bridging global and local perspectives. As the world tunes in, Dubai Opera becomes the stage for change, resonating with the urgency of our time.
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