Descripción
The Saami Brothers Qawwali Ensemble, hosted by the Nealis Program in Asian Studies in partnership with Twelve Gates Arts, will perform before a live audience in the Foley Center of Saint Joseph’s University. Qawwali is a musical tradition deeply rooted in Sufi practice. It is a spiritual experience designed to connect the audience with the Divine Beloved. Through qawwali, performers focus on the Universal essence through the power of sound, verse, and rhythm. The origins of qawwali trace back to a ritual known as sama'a, a ritual involving the use of repetitive melodic verses, to induce a trance-like state, celebrating God, His Prophets, and His Saints. In the 14th century, the legendary Sufi composer, poet, and scholar Amir Khusrau fused Persian musical modes with Eastern ragas and introduced rhythmic patterns and instruments such as the tabla (a pair of hand drums) and sitar. He also created the foundational structure of qawwali, which is still followed today: a lead singer (the ustaad), a chorus of backup singers (the qawwals), and an instrumental and rhythmic clapping ensemble. The Saami Brothers are one of the few remaining families who practice qawwali without alteration. Having traveled from their home in Karachi, Pakistan, the Saami Brothers have now come to the United States to share the unifying, healing, and transformative power of their ancestors' music and spirituality with the West. Their performances are unique and spontaneous, tailored to the energy of the audience in the room. Every performance is a journey—one that invites all who hear it to experience the deep spiritual resonance of this centuries-old tradition. After purchasing this ticket, you may receive a follow-up email from Twelve Gates Arts and/ or the Nealis Program in Asian Studies. Parking Available in Hawk's Landing Garage 2461 N 54th St, Philadelphia, PA 19131