Omani saxist treads a new musical path

2026-02-04 - 15:09

Abdullah al Maamari notes that the saxophone had little presence in the Omani performing arts scene, particularly outside institutional or ceremonial contexts, when he chose to deviate from the beaten path In a music scene where tradition shapes most performances, one Omani musician has chosen an uncommon path... Abdullah al Maamari, 37, an instrumentalist from Muscat, has brought the saxophone – an instrument rarely heard beyond ceremonial settings -into public concerts and cultural events, quietly expanding the soundscape of contemporary Omani music. Maamari’s relationship with music began early, but his formal engagement started during his university years, when he learned to play the violin. That experience opened the door to wider musical exploration, leading him to experiment with several instruments. The saxophone, with its distinctive sound and visual appeal, proved decisive. He began playing it in 2017, and it soon became his primary instrument of expression. Alongside the saxophone, Maamari has experience with the violin, Arabic flute and Arabic percussion – exposure that has helped him navigate different musical schools and traditions. He says his development did not come through academic study, but through self-learning, experimentation and consistent daily practice. While Maamari believes this approach accelerated his progress, he hopes to pursue formal musical studies in the future to deepen his technical and theoretical grounding. Choosing the saxophone was not without challenges. Maamari notes that the instrument had little presence in the Omani art scene, particularly outside institutional or ceremonial contexts. Introducing it to audiences accustomed to Eastern musical forms required persistence and patience. Over time, however, he has seen growing acceptance, especially as the saxophone appears increasingly in national works and fusion experiments that blend Omani musical identity with Western instruments. Maamari’s performances span a wide range of public and private events across the sultanate, as well as concerts and festivals in the UAE, Qatar and Saudi Arabia. International appearances in London and Paris further strengthened his confidence, reinforcing his belief that music transcends borders and language. Artistically, Maamari draws inspiration from jazz and Western romantic music, while remaining rooted in Arabic and Eastern traditions. He cites internationally renowned saxophonist Kenny G as a key influence on his musical journey. Beyond performance, Maamari says music has played a defining role in shaping his character. It has taught him patience, discipline and attentiveness, while enhancing his ability to work under pressure. Music, he says, has also made him more receptive to people’s emotions and more open to cultural differences, helping him build relationships both, within Oman and abroad. “Music was not just a hobby for me, it was a school that taught me patience, commitment and respect for time,” he says. “Through it, I learned how to listen before I speak, and how to express my feelings without words.” He adds that playing the saxophone has brought him a sense of calm and balance, particularly during stressful periods, and has encouraged a more positive outlook on life. “Every time I pick up the saxophone, I feel I have a message and a responsibility to offer something meaningful that touches the audience,” he says. Maamari hopes to perform internationally under his own name as an independent saxophonist, rather than as part of a band or institution. His advice to young Omani talent is simple: remain committed to your passion, continue developing your skills and do not retreat in the face of obstacles. Persistence, he says, remains the foundation of artistic success.