Experience the wonder of classical music from Afghanistan and India at the historic ASU Kerr, loved for its incredible acoustics and cherished by the Indian classical music community.

Qais Essar opens a sacred sonic time portal connecting the ancient Hindu Kush mountain region to today. As a contemporary Afghan composer and musician, he uses the rabab, a 2,500 year old lute-like instrument, to blend traditional Afghan music with contemporary influences that range from Western rock and indie folk to the evolving traditional sounds found along the Silk Road.

Qais will be joined by Shreyas Iyer. His intricate rhythms on tabla are a perfect complement to the rabab. Expect Indian classical raga, plus folk songs from across Afghanistan, all in Qais’ signature style.

Qais has toured extensively, sharing his sounds globally and selling out venues from the US to Australia and beyond. Experience a performance in the intimate, casual and historic setting of ASU Kerr.

He performed with the Oxford Philharmonic, Stephen Malkmus and composed for the Oscar-nominated film “Three Songs for Benazir.” He also contributed to “The Breadwinner,” produced by Angelina Jolie and directed by Nora Twomey. His original song “The Crown Sleeps” earned him a Canadian Screen Award.

This concert is a perfect opportunity for newcomers to explore Qais’ unique signature sound and for fans of more traditional forms of Afghan and Indian music to witness true virtuosos in action.