Qais Essar

Rabab master and contemporary Afghan 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.

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.

"This is timeless, spellbinding music that wraps itself around you, and won't let go" - Sydney Morning Herald

The duration of this event is yet to be confirmed.

Event duration is a guide only and may be subject to change.

Suitable for all ages.

Young people under the age of 15 must be accompanied at all times. Children aged 0 - 23 months at the time of a performance may be seated on a parent’s lap free of charge. All children occupying a seat or aged two years and older must hold a valid ticket.

Elegance, intimacy and impeccable acoustics combine in this small but impressive space. Seating just 200, the Utzon Room is adorned with a vibrant tapestry of Utzon’s own design.