Basel: Royal Cavalry and the Royal Guard of Oman's women musicians and men bagpipe players in vibrant uniforms on Arabian horses stole the hearts and limelight at Basel Tattoo 2023, an international military music show, which began in Basel, Switzerland, on Friday. Military bands from Oman and six other countries are taking part in the world's second largest military tattoo, in terms of performers and budget after the Edinburgh Military Tattoo, till July 22.
To celebrate 50 years of Oman-Switzerland bilateral relations, the musicians formed the number 50 on horseback.
The opening ceremony was attended by a large number of music lovers from different countries of the world to watch musical performances representing different cultures. Mahmoud bin Hamad al Hasani, Ambassador of the Sultanate of Oman to Switzerland, said that the relations between Oman and Switzerland are based on constructive cooperation, respect, exchange of common interests and service of peace, and witness distinguished official visits at a high level between officials of the two countries to strengthen and develop bilateral relations in all fields.
He explained that the participation of the Royal Cavalry and the Royal Guard of Oman in the Tattoo Basel show comes with the aim of strengthening the relations between the two friendly countries, which marks 50 years, as well as to promote the Sultanate of Oman and its cultural heritage.
Brigadier General Ramis bin Jamaan al Aweera, Director-General of Music at the Royal Guard of Oman and supervisor of military music in the Sultanate of Oman, said that participation in Basel Tattoo show is part of the joint cultural cooperation between Oman and Switzerland, and to highlight Omani music, which is an opportunity to promote tourism for the Sultanate. Oman is in one of the most prominent music venues in the world. The Brigadier General indicated that the musicians of the Royal Cavalry and the Royal Guard of Oman will play Omani music specially prepared for this global event. This is in order to introduce the public to the uniqueness of Omani music.
During the various international events, many requests are received to play Omani musical pieces due to its unique rhythms. He added that the musicians will play Arab and Swiss pieces of music alongside the Omani musical compositions on horseback, stressing that participation in such performances contributes to refining the skills of the musicians.
Dr Sarhan bin Salem al Zaidi, Director-General of the Royal Cavalry at the Royal Court Affairs, said that the participation of the Royal Cavalry and the Royal Guard of Oman comes in response to the invitation of Swiss Defence Union, and the participation confirms the strong relations between the two friendly countries. He added that the participation in the Basel Show with various equestrian performances, formations and musical compositions will highlight the cultural and civilisational heritage of the Sultanate of Oman. — ONA
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