Tue Apr 15 12:31:55 UTC 2025: ## Lebanese Musical Icon Elias Rahbani Remembered in New Documentary
**BEIRUT –** A new two-part documentary series celebrates the life and career of Elias Rahbani, a pioneering Lebanese composer who blended traditional Arabic music with Western styles to become a leading figure in Lebanese pop music. While overshadowed early in his career by his brothers, renowned for their collaborations with Fairuz, Elias forged his own path, achieving international recognition through song competitions in Europe and composing for film, television, and stage.
The documentary features interviews with family, friends, and fellow musicians, alongside archival footage showcasing Rahbani’s work and providing a glimpse into Lebanon before the Civil War. His prolific output included movie soundtracks, popular TV series themes, commercials, and even children’s songs. Remarkably, he ultimately fulfilled a lifelong ambition by composing for the iconic Fairuz herself.
The film chronicles Rahbani’s journey from “The Third Rahbani” to a musical icon in his own right, highlighting his innovative approach to music and lasting impact on the Lebanese music scene. The documentary also poignantly touches upon his later years and his passing from COVID-19 complications in January 2021.
First Piper 