Soundscapes of Afghanistan: Tradition Reimagined

Hosted at Mingei International Museum

Experience an unforgettable evening with Qais Essar, a pioneering Afghan composer and rabab virtuoso who weaves the traditional sounds of the mountainous Hindu Kush region with contemporary global music. The rabab, an instrument first mentioned in Arabic texts of the tenth century, is a plucked lute considered by many to be Afghanistan’s national instrument and a precursor of the sarod, prominent in North Indian classical music . Qais’s music blends Afghan folk, Americana, and other sources, creating a unique soundscape that feels both timeless and boundary-pushing.

Following the performance, join us for a Q&A with Qais, where he will share insights into his creative process, collaborations, and the inspirations behind his music. This close-up experience will offer a rare chance to delve into the mind of an artist dedicated to reimagining Afghan music for the modern world.

About the artist:
Qais Essar is an acclaimed Afghan composer, rabab player, and producer who bridges the ancient and modern through his music. Known for his innovative blending of Afghan folk with rich, genre-defying sounds from Western roots music, Qais has performed globally, including with the Oxford Philharmonic, and his music has been featured in major motion pictures and festivals. His compositions include original pieces for Oscar-nominated films Three Songs for Benazir and The Breadwinner. The latter earned him a Canadian Screen Award for Best Original Song. Qais brings traditional Afghan music to new, global audiences.

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This programming is supported in part by Creative West and the National Endowment for the Arts.