Nestled within the vibrant tapestry of North Africa lies Tunisia, a land steeped in history, culture, and the enchanting strains of music. In a narrative as captivating as the melodies that grace the country’s air, a cohort of exceptional musicians from the Motus Quartet, joined by the violinist Vasilisa Koroleva and accompanied by Prof. Fedor Rudin and myself, Anna Kühleitner, embarked on an extraordinary voyage to Tunisia. Initiated by the esteemed Hasdrubal Foundation, this collaboration, facilitated in partnership with the mdw, not only aimed to showcase musical virtuosity but also to cultivate cross-cultural exchange and artistic enrichment.

From the moment our ensemble of musicians set foot on Tunisian soil, they were enveloped in the warmth and vibrancy of the country. Embraced with open arms, they commenced their expedition with a flurry of activities, ranging from intensive rehearsals to enlightening educational sessions. The Motus Quartet, comprised of the talented Tim de Vries, Karla Kříž, Salvatore Borrelli, and Domonkos Hartmann and accompanied by the violinist Vasilisa Koroleva, delved passionately into their musical preparations. With the chamber music reverberating through the corridors and collective collaborations breathing life into the group’s compositions, the atmosphere crackled with anticipation for the forthcoming performances.

Yet, it was not merely the classical music that resonated throughout the landscape. In a beautiful fusion of traditions, the musicians found themselves immersed in the vibrant tapestry of Tunisian melodies and rhythms.

Their expedition culminated in the “Concert of the Continents – EUROPAFRICA”. Against the majestic backdrop of Hasdrubal Hall, the musicians led their audience on a transcendent musical odyssey. From Handel to Mendelssohn and Haydn, European classics intertwined seamlessly with Tunisian arrangements like “Bakhta” and “Mizen Eddenia”, featuring the enchanting vocals of Aida Niati and orchestrated by the talented Zied Zouari. Five Austrian students and sixteen Tunisian musicians united in harmony, creating a symphony that bridged continents and cultures. Additionally, Fedor Rudin, professor of orchestral studies at the Fritz Kreisler Institute for String Instruments, Guitar, and Harp, played a pivotal role in EUROPAFRICA. His expertise and guidance further enriched the musical exchange, ensuring that each note resonated with precision and emotion.

Through the Tunisian breeze, not only Brahms’s melodies filled the air but also the captivating rhythms of North Africa, infusing the performances with a unique and entrancing cadence.

Beyond the confines of concert halls and rehearsal spaces, Tunisia beckoned with its own treasures. The labyrinthine alleyways of the Medina of Hammamet, the bustling markets, and the ancient ruins served as reminders of the country’s rich heritage and cultural diversity.

Ultimately, the group’s expedition was more than a mere exploration of melodies or refinement of their craft. It stood as a testament to the universal language of music, where harmonies transcend boundaries, and cultural exchange orchestrates a symphony of unity and empathy. The hospitality of the Hasdrubal Foundation and its musical director, Laurent Jost, as well as Zied Zouari was felt daily, enriching the experience of all involved. The exchange was profoundly rewarding, fostering lasting connections and mutual understanding. It was an honour to have the Austrian ambassador and other dignitaries in attendance, and a privilege to have the Tunisian minister of culture experience the melodies and exchange first-hand. EUROPAFRICA was not just a concert; it was a celebration of diversity, collaboration, and the transformative power of music.