On November 14, 2024, pianist-composer Omar Harfouch made history as the first artist to perform in the Apostolic Library of the Vatican, a sacred and exclusive venue that had never hosted a public event before. Accompanied by a symphony orchestra, he presented his "Concerto for Peace" in the Sistino Lounge, delivering a heartfelt message of unity and hope to an audience that included the greatest library representatives from around the world.
During this extraordinary evening, Omar Harfouch received the Pontifical Medal of the Vatican Jubilee 2025, awarded by Pope Francis himself. This exceptional honor symbolizes peace and hope, marking Omar as the first-ever recipient of this prestigious medal. The medal, which is a reproduction of a coin that St. Peter carried with him to his grave, is a true symbol of peace and hope.
In his speech, Monsignor Vincenzo Zani warmly welcomed Omar, while Pope Francis praised him as a "pilgrim of peace." The event was a profound call for harmony that transcended borders, resonating from the Vatican to the world.
“The Vatican Apostolic Library is very pleased to welcome this evening, together with the heads of the world's most important libraries, for the first time in this historic venue, a concert by Omar Harfouch. I extend to him my warmest greetings and sincere thanks," said Zani. An archbishop since 2013, Zani is an Italian prelate of the Catholic Church and was named Archivist and Librarian of the Holy Roman Church in September 2022.
Before performing, Omar Harfouch shared a few emotionally words: “I would like to recall that Pope Francis said a phrase: 'We must all work for peace by any means.' This phrase forms the basis of the music we're going to play for you this evening. Everyone must try to do whatever they can to help promote peace. This is the first time we've played this 'Concerto for Peace' in such a sacred place. We're going to try to speak to your hearts, and we hope that this appeal will cross borders because this appeal will be launched from the Vatican, which is very symbolic.”
After speaking, Omar Harfouch performed his "Concerto for Peace" for some twenty minutes. Warmly applauded at the end of his performance, Omar Harfouch was then treated to a few surprises, including receiving the Pontifical Medal of the Vatican Jubilee 2025.
A short video summary of the monumental evening can be found here.
"What sets 'Concerto for Peace' apart from similar initiatives is its ability to weave cultural diplomacy into the concert experience. By integrating local musicians and addressing region-specific conflicts, Harfouch ensures that the message of peace is adapted to resonate deeply with audiences. Harfouch’s efforts have received acknowledgment from international organizations like the United Nations and the International League Against Racism and Anti-Semitism (LICRA) for promoting peace through cultural exchange," wrote Maria Williams in an article for Us Weekly on November 7, 2024.
About Omar Harfouch
Omar Harfouch is a celebrated French pianist-composer and businessman. He studied piano in the Soviet Union, a country in which he also trained in diplomacy. Renowned for his lifelong dedication to using music as a platform for unity and social change and with a diverse background in classical music and modern media, Harfouch’s career uniquely bridges the artistic and cultural realms. For more information, visit https://www.omarharfouch.com.
