Music for changing people

Pakistani-born, New York-based songwriter and vocalist Arooj Aftab took the stage with few words, letting silence cover the crowd as Bhrigu Sahni delicately tuned his guitar. As he began to pluck the bright melody of the first song, Aftab let loose an intricate voice that filled up all corners of UNC Asheville’s Lipinksy Auditorium.

Speaking to the crowd, Aftab explained that the songs came from reinterpreted Sufi poetry set to music. One, which she performed in English, was a translation from Sufi mystic Rumi: “Last night my love was beautiful, like the moon … brighter than the sun.” Although the lines were simple, the message came through clearly in the feeling of the music.

Jörn Bielfeldt played the rhythm box. Responding to the unique path of each song, he used an array of percussive instruments from drum sticks to locust bean pods. At one point he removed his shoes and played the box with the backs of his heels.

After the show, Bielfeldt said that most of the performance was spontaneous improv of songs the group had performed together before. Collaborating for the past five years, the three artists have a palpable connection on stage, and although each is pursuing an individual musical path, they come together whenever they can. “We want people to listen to the music and leave happier, more in touch,” said Bielfeldt. “Isn’t that what music is for? Changing people?”

In the spirit of transformation, Aftab started the initiative Rebuild Pakistan during that country’s 2010 flood crisis. Aftab’s organization has collaborated with fellow musicians and the Human Development Fund to promote a vision of unity and active healing for her home nation.  Aftab also works as assistant editor and musical supervisor for MTV’s new program, Rebel Music. The six-part series follows young people who are using creativity and artistic passion to change the world.

Visit UNCA’s Cultural and Special Academic Programs for upcoming events.

SHARE

Thanks for reading through to the end…

We share your inclination to get the whole story. For the past 25 years, Xpress has been committed to in-depth, balanced reporting about the greater Asheville area. We want everyone to have access to our stories. That’s a big part of why we've never charged for the paper or put up a paywall.

We’re pretty sure that you know journalism faces big challenges these days. Advertising no longer pays the whole cost. Media outlets around the country are asking their readers to chip in. Xpress needs help, too. We hope you’ll consider signing up to be a member of Xpress. For as little as $5 a month — the cost of a craft beer or kombucha — you can help keep local journalism strong. It only takes a moment.

About Katie Souris
artist, writer, and lover of all things out of doors. Enjoys dancing indoors or out.

Before you comment

The comments section is here to provide a platform for civil dialogue on the issues we face together as a local community. Xpress is committed to offering this platform for all voices, but when the tone of the discussion gets nasty or strays off topic, we believe many people choose not to participate. Xpress editors are determined to moderate comments to ensure a constructive interchange is maintained. All comments judged not to be in keeping with the spirit of civil discourse will be removed and repeat violators will be banned. See here for our terms of service. Thank you for being part of this effort to promote respectful discussion.

Leave a Reply

To leave a reply you may Login with your Mountain Xpress account, connect socially or enter your name and e-mail. Your e-mail address will not be published. All fields are required.