Calling aspiring songwriters, composers, lyricists and creatives to immerse themselves in four days of songwriting across the spectrum – from melody, harmonisation and composition to chord progression and production. 

Are you looking to delve deeper into the world of songwriting? Are you hoping to collaborate with other artists in the community? Here’s an opportunity to connect, learn and exchange ideas, tools and techniques directly from three regional mentors Ahmad Farah, Nadine Lingawi and Hana Malhas, whose music and creative processes have centred on collaborative songwriting, creation, publishing and partnerships. 

Because we believe collaboration and curiosity can result in some of the most meaningful musical ideas, we want to provide a safe, open and engaging space for musicians and artists to come together, provide a supportive network and learn from each others’ lived experiences, perspectives and practices. 

If this is of interest to you, please fill out the application form and let us know why you’d like to participate in the lab.

Deadline to apply: July 3, 2025

Objectives:

Knowledge sharing and learning about songwriting – individually and collaboratively – to develop skills through experimentation, listening sessions, exercises and performances.

Collaborative exchange and connections between songwriters, artists, lyricists, composers and producers (at varying levels) and to be a part of a community that challenges, inspires and supports one another.

Industry insights on the local and Arab music scene with real life examples, experiences, tools and tips  from regional mentors to better navigate your own creative process for existing and future musical projects.

What is expected of participants:

• Active listening and participation
• A collaborative mind – open and willing to work with others
• Genuine interest and curiosity in improving songwriting skills to develop an authentic musical style, identity and place 
• Ability to commit to the full duration of the programme in Jeddah and respecting the schedule

Application:

To express your interest, please apply HERE – we welcome applications in Arabic and/or English.

A sample (written or recorded; can be a voice recording, audio file or video) of a verse, melody or original song is essential for the application process. Any incomplete applications will not be reviewed or considered for the lab. 

Please note, only those selected will be notified via email by the Art Jameel team. The programme does not cover travel or accommodation of participants and those selected will have to cover their own expenses if based outside of Jeddah.

ABOUT THE MENTORS

Ahmad Farah

Ahmad Farah is a songwriter and performer whose dynamic musical career has spanned the Middle East, Africa, and the United States. Since launching his solo journey in 2010, Farah has been known for blending underground, experimental, and pop influences, making his music accessible and artistically rich.

Beyond performing, he has led songwriting and composition workshops locally and internationally, collaborating with NGOs, individual artists, and bands. From 2016-2022, he was a member of the acclaimed Jordanian rock band Jadal, and in 2019 co-founded Tayar, an Arabic electronic indie-pop duo with producer Bader Helalat. The duo gained critical acclaim with the release of their debut album Kol Shi Sar in July 2024, marking a milestone in Ahmad’s creative evolution.

Fulana

Weaving together the soft textures of her environment with electronic synthesizers, beats, and layered vocals, Nadine Lingawi, through her project, fulana, is an indie/electronic-pop artist known for crafting music that resonates on a deeply personal level through sonic narration. Her sound, often described as dark and thought- provoking, captures the emotional complexities of the human experience. As a distinctive Saudi musician gaining international recognition, fulana approaches music with intention and depth, fusing fresh sonic elements with solid research findings and concepts.

Her latest project was the release of her debut EP ‘ground:from’, which she collaborated and created with the electronic music duo Input/Output at the end of 2024. The second chapter, ‘ground:to’, will be released later in 2025. 

Hana Malhas

Hana Malhas embodies the intriguing paradox of belonging to nothing and everything at the same time. As an independent Arab singer, songwriter & multi-instrumentalist, her Arabic & English indie alternative songs delve deep into themes of identity, time, and the human condition. Her lyrics are intensely personal, yet powerfully anthemic, making her more than just an entertainer but a storyteller with a mission.

As an influential figure in the alternative music scene, Hana Malhas’ impact extends beyond her music. She founded BalaFeesh, an innovative live music platform, bringing artists and audiences together in what was then a new format that became a regional sensation. Today, Balafeesh has expanded into music publishing and rights management for songwriters.