Rabab master and composer Qais Essar fuses ancient Indian and Afghan folk and classical music with the music of today in a breathtaking performance in the Utzon Room.

Award-winning contemporary Afghan composer, instrumentalist and producer Qais Essar is renowned for his spell-binding performances and fusion of diverse musical influences and styles.

A virtuoso on the rabab, the lute-like national instrument of Afghanistan, Essar has delved deep into the world of Indian and Afghan folk and classical music, as well as drawing on musical styles from film and television music to American folk and contemporary rock.

In only his second tour to Australia, Essar is joined in the Utzon Room by Murtaza Damoon on tabla for a sonic time portal from the ancient Hindu Kush to the modern era, in a program featuring Indian classical raga alongside folk songs from across Afghanistan. 

‘I’m looking forward to bringing the Afghan rabab to the Sydney Opera House. This is a beautiful opportunity to hear Afghan folk and Indian classical music performed on this ancient instrument.’

Qais Essar
Afghan rabab

Murtaza Damoon
Tabla

Sunday 27 October 2024

3pm