ASD Students Shine at National SAIKAC Music Festival in Jeddah
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On Nov. 5, 2025 American School Dhahran students took center stage at the SAIKAC Music Festival in Jeddah, joining musicians from across Saudi Arabia for three days of intensive rehearsals, ensemble work and community building.
Twenty four ASD students participated in the festival, collaborating with peers from schools around the country to prepare for a culminating concert. The performance showcased their musical growth, discipline and teamwork as they delivered a program that highlighted the strength of ASD’s performing arts program.
“We’re incredibly proud of their dedication and the way these students represented ASD,” Mr. Ned Fortescue said.
ASD’s music faculty, Ned Fortescue, Ms. Kim Makechnie and chaperone Ms. Zhanna Montgomery, guided students throughout the event, supporting their preparation and performance.
The festival featured a diverse lineup of band and choir selections:
Band Program
• Libertango
• Snakecharmer
• How to Train Your Dragon
• Set Me as a Seal
• Rollo Takes a Walk
Choir Program
• Hlonolofatsa
• Route 66
• Skyfall
• You Raise Me Up
• Lean on Me
The students’ strong showing reflects ASD’s commitment to arts education and its mission to develop creativity and confidence. Their achievements continue to highlight the impact of dedicated instruction and rich opportunities across ASD.
