On March 17, 2025, the Department of Music at the Ramez G. Chagoury Faculty of Architecture, Arts and Design (FAAD) at Notre Dame University-Louaize (NDU) and the globally recognized producer, composer and conductor Oussama Rahbani signed a landmark collaboration agreement. With this agreement, the University's music program and Musicology major embark on a new chapter, providing students with unparalleled chances to develop their artistic talents, engage in creative projects, and network with industry professionals.
The signing ceremony brought together NDU President Fr. Bechara Khoury; Oussama Rahbani; Dr. Antoine Farhat, Vice President for University Advancement; Dr. Michel El Hayek, Vice President for Academic Affairs; Dr. Karen BouJaoude, Dean of the Ramez G. Chagoury Faculty of Architecture, Arts, and Design; Dolcy Lawoun, Chairperson of the Department of Music; Majed Bou Hadir, Director of the Office of Public Affairs and Protocol; and André Fahed, Director of the Office of Communications.
During the event, Fr. Bechara Khoury expressed his gratitude to Rahbani for his active involvement in this initiative, emphasizing its significant impact on NDU students. He reiterated the University’s ongoing dedication to valuing music and its development, highlighting that NDU has always, and will always, serve as a beacon for artistic expression. He further noted that by working together, Rahbani's skills would be demonstrated in an educational context, therefore giving students the best possible exposure to the world of music. This collaboration, he added, is not just about refining technical skills but also about instilling a deeper passion for music that will stay with students throughout their lives.
Rahbani, in turn, thanked the University for its continuous efforts to support education and artistic potential. In an era of swift technological progress where digital technologies and artificial intelligence are changing the creative scene, he emphasized the significance of mentoring young people. "I aim to provide students with everything that can be useful to them in their future careers and professional lives," he stated, drawing attention to the necessity of continuous learning and adaptation. He further stressed the importance of granting students the freedom to explore their creativity, rather than imposing restrictions that could limit their artistic expression.
Dr. El Hayek hoped that NDU would become a second home for Rahbani. He shared his vision for the partnership and reiterated that NDU’s commitment to offering high quality education extends to the promotion of music as an essential element within the academic framework. “We are dedicated to creating a holistic environment where music thrives alongside other disciplines,” Dr. El Hayek remarked.
For her part, Dr. Karen BouJaoude shared her enthusiasm for this collaboration, underlining its role in relaunching a new music program titled Music Production and Industry Practices, starting Fall 2025. She pointed out the importance of this partnership, noting that it would not only attract more students but also reinvigorate the Musicology major and pave the way for new academic possibilities.
This new program will complement the existing undergraduate, minor, and graduate studies.
Dolcy Lawoun, reflected on the collective efforts behind this partnership. "Dr. BouJaoude and I have been working relentlessly to make this collaborative agreement a reality, and I am confident that this collaboration will be fruitful and cultivate a new, clear vision and approach," she stated. Lawoun also announced upcoming changes to the curriculum, including courses in Recording and Editing, Sound Design, Mixing and Mastering, and Music Business, alongside fundamental courses in musicology designed to make the program more appealing to students while ensuring they remain in step with industry advancements.
By encouraging artistic development and opening up new opportunities for young artists, this partnership represents a revolutionary move for NDU's music department. Through masterclasses, workshops, and mentorship, Rahbani will share his expertise in composition, performance, and the evolving music industry. His guidance will not only refine students’ artistic skills but also equip them with the tools needed to navigate the challenges of a competitive job market.
As this initiative evolves, it will further strengthen the University’s standing as a center for musical excellence—one that not only nurtures talent but also ignites inspiration in the next generation of musicians.