Sharjah TV, a subsidiary of Sharjah Media Corporation, launched the new season of Munshid Al Sharjah, one of the region's most popular TV programmes dedicated to meaningful chanting.
The programme team will be heading to nine countries to select the best aspiring vocal talents for participation in the 7th edition of the programme. The team will visit the Kingdom Saudi Arabia, Algeria, Morocco, Egypt, Jordan, Malaysia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Chad and the U.A.E..
Those who would like to enter the competition and are not from the above-mentioned countries may audition online on the soon to be launched Munshid Al Sharjah website. Once the website is ready, and the audition committee announces the open call for auditions, candidates may submit their videos for the 7th season's show.
Videos should not be more than 3 minutes in length and should contain a meaningful chant and mawwal, through which candidates can demonstrate their vocal capabilities. Munshid Al Sharjah is open to anyone between the ages of 18 and 26.
Speaking on the occasion, Mohammed Khalaf, Manager of SMC's Sharjah TV and Radio, said, "The new edition of the programme is being launched under the directives and follow-up of H.H. Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah. This event will further consolidate the cultural and art position of Sharjah as Islamic Culture Capital 2014." He added, "As we are excited to encourage deep and meaningful lyrics and melodies that are in harmony with our traditions and culture, we are determined to continue with the success of Munshid Al Sharjah, which has made a breakthrough in the art of rich and impressive chanting over the last six editions. The programme is coming back with a new look and features. Moreover, the premiere evening this year will coincide with the nationwide celebrations of the U.A.E. National Day, an occasion that will add greater excellence and uniqueness to the already exciting event." Najm Al Din, Programme Producer, commented, "We have been committed to open entry for everyone this year. With so many talented contestants on and the increasing popularity of the show, we are looking forward to a challenging and exciting competition this edition. New selection criteria have been developed this year in response to the magnitude of public interest. The judging panel will be composed of high profile figures and will be revealed soon." The preliminary audition committee, which will select the contestants in the above-mentioned countries, is composed of a number of experts, the committee has decided to host celebrated local art figures in each city, and will invite them to assist the committee in the initial evaluation of candidates. This will add value to the selection process, help increase interaction, and expand participation.
Following the preliminary preparation for the second round, the selected chanters will come to Sharjah for the final showdown. They will attend behind the scenes vocal and performance training sessions and rehearsals before the show. The competition shows will take place 4 days a week from the 5th to 26th of December. In addition, three backstage episodes that present the daily lives of chanters will be televised on Sharjah TV on three days every week throughout the competition.
Source: WAM