From Wednesday 18 February until Sunday 22 March 2009, the Al Bustan International Festival of Music and the Arts takes place in the village of Beyt Meri, Lebanon. This year’s motto is “Music and Life”. The festival started with two opening concerts on 18 and 19 February with the Lebanese National Symphony Orchestra, Szabolcs Brickner from Hungary, tenor, who won the first prize of the Queen Elizabeth Competition this year, and the Italian conductor, Paolo Olmi. Launched in 1994, the Al Bustan Festival takes place annually during February and March, presenting a rich and interesting programme and each year focusing on a central theme. The Al Bustan Festival is a major contributor to the cultural life of Lebanon. Check out the full programme of the 2009 Al Bustan Festival here.