The Persian music of Afghanistan meets baroque.

Van Diemen’s Band invites listeners to experience a stunning blend of two distinct musical worlds. Created for MONA FOMA 2023 and performed to sold-out audiences, this cross-cultural collaboration with Ensemble Kaboul features musicians Khaled Arman (rubab), Siar Hashimi (tablā and vocals) and Masud Hashimi (percussion).
 
Embodying artistry and advocacy, this performance preserves and celebrates musical traditions Afghanistan's current regime is attempting to silence.
 
Immerse yourself in the warm, resonant tones of Van Diemen’s Band’s period instruments as they interweave with the intricate melodic patterns of traditional Afghan and Persian music, while soaring vocals merge with the ethereal late 19th century piano compositions of Erik Satie.
 
Traditional Persian compositions have been harmoniously arranged for this ensemble, and Western classical pieces were selected for their fluid, contemplative style, creating a seamless interplay between Central Asian and European musical traditions.

Ensemble Kaboul
Rubab | Khaled Arman
Tablā and vocals | Siar Hashimi
Percussion and dhol | Masud Hashini
 
Van Diemen's Band
Artistic Director & Baroque violin | Julia Fredersdorff
Viola | Rachel Meyers
Viola da gamba, violone | Laura Vaughan
Cello | Martin Penicka
Harpsichord | Donald Nicolson
Mandolin | Luke Plumb

Theatre Royal Subscribers and Members
Please log in to your account before you select tickets to obtain your discounts.