Nadine Kabbani’s Inspirational Journey Through Celestial Composition

Nadine Kabbani, a talented 20-year-old Emirati musician, is set to make history as her composition “No Gravity” will be broadcast from the International Space Station this September. Selected as one of the winners of the Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology’s AstroBeat – Music from Space competition, Nadine’s celestial-inspired piece will be featured for the first time in space.

Nadine’s journey into music began at the age of 8 when she started playing the piano. Little did she know that her passion for music would lead her compositions to be streamed from space. Graduating from New York University Abu Dhabi with a degree in legal studies and music, Nadine’s love for music and the piano grew deeper over the years, culminating in her winning submission for the AstroBeat competition.

Her winning piece, “No Gravity,” combines classical instruments with synthesisers, giving it a space-themed, celestial vibe. The inspiration for the composition came during a period of frequent travel for a law competition, where Nadine felt distant and unanchored. Channeling these emotions into her music, she created a piece that captures the feeling of floating between different places.

Nadine credits the staff at NYUAD, particularly assistant professors Matteo Marciano and Carlos Guedes, for their guidance and support in shaping her academic journey. Starting music as a hobby, Nadine’s professors helped her realize her potential in music composition, paving the way for her to pursue a career in music alongside her legal aspirations.

Despite her decision to pursue a career in law, specifically in intellectual property law, Nadine remains dedicated to her passion for music. She plans to continue composing music in her free time and specialize in intellectual property law to combine both her interests seamlessly.

The AstroBeat competition also crowned American student Summer Reid as a winner, with her composition “Little Brooks” inspired by a family reunion. Funded by the Malta Council for Science and Technology through the Space Upstream Programme, AstroBeat provides a unique opportunity for young musicians to have their music broadcast from space.

Nadine’s journey from playing the piano at the age of 8 to having her music streamed from the International Space Station is a testament to her talent and dedication to music. As her composition “No Gravity” reaches for the stars, Nadine Kabbani’s name will be etched in history as a musician whose music transcends earthly boundaries and resonates in the vastness of space.