Pakistani jazz group Sachal plays at the UN
Pakistani Sachal Jazz Ensemble of Game of Thrones fame wowed the jam-packed UN General Assembly Hall with it q unique fusion of traditional and modern music for a Music Without Borders performance as Pakistan celebrated the 70th anniversary of its independence at the world stage.
The deputy secretary general of the UN Amina J Mohammad said the ensemble “blends music and tradition in a way that is at once universal, familiar and entirely their own” and a “reflection of Pakistan’s rich history, vibrant culture and great passion for the arts.”
The prestigious gold-and-blue Hall resounded with slogans of “Pakistan Zindabad” and “Jeeway, Jeeway Pakistan” as Pakistan’s Ambassador to the UN, Maleeha Lodhi welcomed ambassadors and representatives of a number of countries as well as members of the Pakistani community.
Introducing the acclaimed group to the distinguished audience, Ambassador Lodhi said, “The music from the Sachal Jazz Ensemble you will hear tonight is part of the cultural renaissance underway in Pakistan today, in art, music and literature.”
Calling it a reflection of a vibrant society undiminished by many challenges she said “This profusion of creative voices also reflects the confidence of a new generation of Pakistanis, proud of its traditions but also connected to the wider world.”
The inspiration behind the Sachal Jazz Ensemble and a wider Sachal project is London- based businessman-turned-studio boss Izzat Majeed. Working with consultants from London’s Abbey Road studios, he set up state-of-the-art studios in Lahore, rescued Pakistani musicians from poverty and brought them together to make music.