In 1999 Lebanese composer and musician Marcel Khalife was granted the Palestine Award for Music by the Palestinian Ministry of Culture. In turn, Marcel Khalife contributed the financial segment of the award to The National Conservatory of Music at Birzeit University in Palestine.

In appreciation for his generous contribution, the conservatory decided to establish a special grant in Marcel Khalife's name for achieving music students. This year, they allocated a financial award to those who excel in a musical competition set up by the conservatory.

Thursday, March 15, 2001

Dear Marcel,

In spite of the war and siege that attempts to imprison us, we will always aspire to accomplish something beautiful to confront our dire reality, while always hoping for a better future.

We will use part of your contribution to our institution as financial awards to those who excel. This is the first competition of its kind that the conservatory initiates in the hope that this new idea succeeds and becomes part of our yearly projects.

With all my love and appreciation.