Sufi-Celtic music collaboration between artists from The Orchestral Qawwali Project, international Irish composer and musician Neil Martin and local orchestral musicians. 

Qawwali, meaning ‘to speak’ is a form of devotional music that expresses the mystical Sufi practice of Islam in South Asia. Widely regarded as the biggest step forward for the art-form in decades, The Orchestral Qawwali Project, has captivated audiences through its unique combination of Sufi poetry, Indian Classical dance and orchestral arrangements.

Led by three critically acclaimed UK British Asian artists Rushil, Abi and Amrit, the trio have performed in collaboration with international artists, orchestras, festivals and venues across the world including Southbank Centre, Celtic Connections, Scottish Chamber Orchestra, and Expo 2020 in Dubai with Oscar-winning AR Rahman’s Firdaus Orchestra.

The project brings the Qawwali artists together with Neil Martin, a composer from Belfast whose work has been performed across the world from Ground Zero to Mostar Bridge and the Royal Albert Hall. Neil has contributed to over 100 albums and has performed in international venues, such as Carnegie Hall and Palazzo Vecchio.

The collaboration was premiered at St Anne’s Cathedral as part of the Belfast Mela 2023 on Tuesday 22^nd August 2023 with support from Arts Council of Northern Ireland.