The Saami Brothers featuring Ustad Naseeruddin Saami

The Saami family is the living custodian of the Delhi Qawwal Bacha Gharana – a musical school of thought — founded in the 14th century by the legendary Sufi poet, musician, and scholar Amir Khusrau by combining Persian, Turkish, Arabic and South Asian elements. The Saami family is the last family to preserve this tradition in its purest form and are true masters of Khayal—a word that roughly translates to “imagination.” As exemplary vocalists, they are capable of producing a rarely heard 49-note microtonal scale relayed in a manner that uses few words sung in unending variations.

Rarely is khayal presented in its pure form. This program offers the opportunity to experience the sacred soundscape of Khayal in its most authentic expression, with Ustads Rauf and Urooj on vocals, Ahmed Saami on harmonium, and their father, the revered Ustad Naseeruddin Saami, appearing as a special guest. For this program, the vocals will be accentuated by sarangi – a bowed stringed instrument which mimics the sound and depth of voice as well as tabla. Together, they will perform the intricate, transcendent soundscapes of Khayal, guiding audiences on an immersive journey through rhythm, melody, and mystic verse.

Audiences are encouraged to surrender to the spiritual and healing power of this largely wordless music. Even without understanding the lyrics, one can simply close their eyes and travel with these remarkable vocalists on a profound sonic journey.