Melodies & Rhythms from Afghanistan

Experience the soul-stirring beauty of Afghan music, where ancient traditions meet timeless melodies. Melodies & Rhythms from Afghanistan brings together the extraordinary talents of Eman Hashemi (Tabla) and Siddique Ahmed (Rubab) to celebrate the rich musical heritage of Afghanistan.

Afghan music is a tapestry woven with influences from Iran, South Asia, and Central Asia—a legacy of the Silk Road that connected cultures through sound and spirit. From the deep, meditative melodies of Badakhshan to the intricate rhythmic cycles shaped by Indian classical traditions, and the expressive modal structures reminiscent of Persian and Uzbek music, Afghan music carries echoes of its neighbors while maintaining a distinct identity of its own.

In a time when music is silenced in Afghanistan, this project serves as both a tribute and a resistance—keeping Afghan melodies alive, ensuring they continue to inspire and resonate across the world.

Join us for an evening of profound rhythms, mesmerizing melodies, and a journey through the musical landscapes of Afghanistan and beyond.

Biography

Son of the legendary Tabla Maestro, Ustad Toryalai Hashimi of the Punjab Gharana, Eman

Hashimi has been captivating audiences worldwide with his exceptional talent and dedication to

the art of tabla. Beginning his training at the tender age of seven, Eman was immersed in the

rich traditions of the Punjab Gharana and the Afghan style of percussion.

In 2009, Eman advanced his studies under the tutelage of the legendary Pandit SwapanChaudhuri, a period that significantly honed his skills and artistry. Eman was considered

a child prodigy, giving his first concert alongside his father at the age of nine. He also became one of the youngest students to accompany his Guru, Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri, on stage for a tabla

duet. His collaborations include performances with renowned artists from around the globe

representing different styles of music such as traditional Afghan music, North and South Indian

Classical music, Jazz, regional folk and many other genres.

In addition to his performance career, Eman is the founder of PACA (Preservation Afghan

Cultural Arts), a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving, teaching, and promoting the

music of Afghanistan, where music is currently banned. Through PACA, Eman has dedicated

his life to researching, teaching, and performing the music of Afghanistan & India, ensuring that

these rich traditions continue to thrive and inspire future generations.

Siddique Ahmed (Sohrab) is a multi-instrumentalist, composer, and music

producer. He is the founding member of Afghanistan's first rock band, Kabul

Dreams, and has represented Afghanistan in multiple international festivals,

including SxSW. As a music producer, he has arranged and produced music for

composers like Kabir Howaida and Afghan legendary singer Ustad Mahwash

along with many emerging artists.

After moving to the U.S., Siddique reconnected with his roots and took up the

Rubab, an instrument he always felt a deep connection with. He brings melodies

from different regions of Afghanistan to life on the Rubab, infusing them with his

own interpretation while preserving their traditional essence.

Siddique is also an active collaborator with the Afghanistan Freeharmonic

Orchestra (AFO), a global collective of Afghan and international musicians

dedicated to preserving Afghan musical heritage and advocating for freedom

through music. Through virtual collaborations, he contributes his expertise in both

traditional and contemporary Afghan music, using the Rubab to revive Afghan

melodies while incorporating global influences. His work with AFO supports its

mission to give voice to Afghan musicians silenced by conflict and repression,

uniting displaced artists through music as a form of resistance and resilience.