Mrs. Mubarak opens Umm Kalthoum museum

Mrs. Suzanne Mubarak described the late legendary singer Umm Kalthoum as a wonderful example of Egyptian women struggle.

She pointedout setting up a museum for the personal possessions of Umm Kalthoum is recognition of the efforts of the superstar singerstress.

Speaking after opening the Umm Kalthoum museum late Friday, Mrs. Mubarak called on young artists of take the legendary singer stress as their example.

She added that Egypt's keenness on establishing the museum mirrors the political leadership's desire to honour creative people.

A series of cultural seminars on Umm Kalthoum's art will be held at the museum as well as concerts by the Umm Kalthoum band, she added.

The museum has been built by the ministry of culture in appreciation of the significant role played by umm kalthoum in enriching the art of Egyptian and Arab singing during the 20th century.

The museum occupies one of the annexes of Al Manasterli Palace on Roda Island and aims to preserve umm kalthoum splendid artistic heritage.

The museum idea dates back to 1998 when the Ministry of Culture began collecting the personal belongings and valuable memorabilia of the late singer, the glittering star of Egyptian and Arab music, from her relations and ardent fans.

The collection is housed in a building that occupies 250 square metres.

The museum's role would not be confined to merely showing the items of Umm Kalthoum but would conduct seminars about her impact on contemporary Arab music and singing during the previous century.

It would also hast music conferences and organizes singing competitions for young singers.

The museum library that includes all that has been written about Umm Kalthoum, will provide rich material for researchers and those interested in her singing career. The museum will be opened to the public by the beginning of the New Year.