ISLAMABAD: An evening of classical music featuring some of Pakistan’s greatest classical musicians was held at National Institute of Folk and Traditional Heritage (Lok Virsa) on Thursday.
The evening was organised as part of the ongoing session called ‘Lok Baithak’ on ‘Traditional Musical Family Patiala Gharana’ at Lok Virsa Media Centre.
The programme was opened with a vocal rendition of Sufi kalam by Professor Shahbaz who was accompanied by Ustad Jalees on the violin and Ejaz Hussain on Tabla.
The accompanists added to the perfection of Shahbaz’s rendition. Professor Shahbaz Ali, a musicologist, a singer, solo harmonium player and a writer, while sharing his thoughts and experiences urged young musicians to learn from living legends so classical music may continue and flourish.
He said the promotion of cultural activities is necessary for peaceful coexistence in society. He also apprised the audience on the universal knowledge of music, its history, down and fall and reasons associated therewith in sub-continent with a special focus on world famous Patiala Musical Family.
Ustad Raees, a world recognized violin player, son of Ustad Fateh Ali Khan (world recognised sittar player) of Patiala family, played different ragas on violin.
He also told the audience on how violin got localised in sub-continent. What was most encouraging was the attendance of a large crowd who showed that they had refined tastes in music.
