The Edward Said National Conservatory of Music (ESNCM) was founded over 20 years ago by five Palestinian musicians under the auspices of Birzeit University’s Board of Trustees. Now a pillar of Palestinian cultural identity, ESNCM offers musical education to over 1,000 students across Jerusalem, Gaza, Ramallah, Nablus, Bethlehem, and other outreach centers, significantly enhancing Palestine’s musical landscape.

The ESNCM is dedicated to making music accessible to all, with extensive scholarships enabling thousands of Palestinian children and youth, including those in refugee camps, to learn instruments or participate in choirs. With a committed team of trustees, managers, and over seventy music teachers, the conservatory has revived traditional Arabic instruments, sparking enthusiasm among the younger generation.

Annual events like the ‘Layali A Tarab fi Quds Al Arab’ Arabic classical music festival showcase Palestinian talent and serve as cultural resistance. Western classical music is also offered, with ensembles like the Palestine National Orchestra, Palestine Youth Orchestra, and Palestine Strings reflecting Palestinian pride and dedication. Focused on excellence, ESNCM continues to invest in state-of-the-art facilities and advanced music education programs, while producing high-quality publications and productions with local and international support, fostering a nurturing environment for Palestinian talent to flourish.