The people of Jacksonville will have a chance to experience the fusion of Islamic tradition and contemporary artistry that is Riyaaz Qawwali this summer. The concert is an extension of Ink, Silk, and Gold: Islamic Treasures from the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston that will run until Sunday, September 3.
Riyaaz Qawwali is a talented musical group of South Asian musicians representing an eclectic collection of diverse religious and cultural backgrounds. While the members of Riyaaz Qawwali live in the United States, they are originally from India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan.
What is Qawwali? Qawwali is a Muslim musical tradition that dates back more than seven centuries and is still popular today in certain areas of Bangladesh, Pakistan, and India. A devotional style of music, Qawwali is largely associated with Sufism, an Islamic practice that focuses on personal enlightenment and the actualization of Truth.
Riyaaz Qawwali strives to bring the Qawwali style of music to new places and new audiences, and the unique musical style includes elements not found in other South Asian music. Riyaaz Qawwali takes the style one step further by fusing traditional Qawwali music with the work of well-known South Asian poets. The ensemble’s various religious and ethnic backgrounds send a message of unity and oneness while exposing younger generations across the world to their music.
The concert will be held August 25 from 7 to 9 p.m. Tickets are $30 for members, $40 for non-members, and registration is required to reserve a seat at the show! For further information or to register, please call 904.899.6038 or register online.
