World Sacred Music kicks off in Fez

The 11th edition of the World Sacred Music (June 3- 11) kicked off Friday in Fez under the theme "Paths of Hope" in a concert that brought together Moroccan and Spanish artists.

Princess Lalla Salma, spouse of King Mohammed VI, chaired the opening ceremony that featured a concert of the Spanish mezzo-soprano Téresa Berganza that shared stage with her daughter Cecilia Lavilla in a unique and beautiful performance.

The two artists made their performance with the Orchestra and the Choir of the Community of Madrid.

The opening ceremony went on with Sufi chants by the Moroccan young talent Asmae Lemnawer.

This international music event, held in Morocco's cultural capital, is marked this year by the presence of musicians of over 15 countries.

Performances by Moroccan and Spanish artists at the opening ceremony were meant to be a sign of advocating tolerance and peaceful co-existence through songs and music.

Since the festival started in October 1994, it has become a call for peace and for harmonization between spiritual cultures.