The much-anticipated Pak-Swiss Cultural Event’s first show was held at the Nishtar Hall, Peshawar, and it was an evening to remember. The event brought together some of the most talented national and international musicians to perform a unique fusion of eastern and western classical, folk, Sufi, Jazz, and contemporary music.
The lineup featured WajihNizami (PAK), Irfan Khan (PAK), Markus Hauser (CH), Loris Peloso (CH), and Sumair Emmanuel (PAK) who created a beautiful blend of music that left the audience spellbound. The audience was transported to a world of musical magic as the musicians took the stage, playing instruments that ranged from the traditional sitar to the modern guitar.
The highlight of the evening was the instrumental duet by WajihNizami and Irfan Khan who blended classical sitar with rhythms of tabla, creating a new and captivating sound that left the audience enchanted. Another memorable moment was the performance by the saxophone player Markus Hauser, who infused his traditional jazz style with classical elements of the East, creating a fusion of Eastern Raga and Western Blues. WajihNizami named this new fusion style, “Raga Blues”.
The event was organized to promote the cultural richness of Pakistan, and its musical diversity and to encourage the talented musicians of the region. The response to the event was overwhelmingly positive, and the organizers received many compliments on the quality of the performances and the overall organization of the event. The audience was left mesmerized and already looking forward to the next edition of the Pak-Swiss Cultural Event. The event was free and open to the public and a large turnout of the audience proved the love of Peshawar for music and our cultural heritage.
“Our purpose to perform in Peshawar was to reflect the peaceful image of this historical city that has been stigmatized by international media. We want to give a message of peace from Peshawar and highlight the cultural heritage attached to this city of flowers, Rahman Baba (A seventeenth century Sufi Saint and Poet), and Attan (a traditional dance),” said WajihNizami.
“It needs a lot of practice to catch up with Pakistani musicians,” said Markus Hauser while talking about his experience with Pakistani musicians. “I would like to say thank you for this great opportunity to play in Pakistan and hope that you are going to enjoy this music.”
The organizers of this event, Rung School, expressed their gratitude to all the artists who participated in the event and made it a memorable experience. They also appreciated the Peshawar audience for their hospitality and enthusiastic support, and for making the event a success.
