Description
Bradford Literature Festival is proud to present the world premiere of the first ever symphonic interpretation of Allama Muhammed Iqbal’s legendary Urdu poem, Shikwa (Complaint), by Rushil Ranjan, Abi Sampa and Manchester Camerata.
A bold and thought-provoking work, Shikwa is characterised by powerful imagery, evocative language and a deep sense of pathos. As relevant now as when it was first penned in 1909, Iqbal addresses God directly, voicing the collective grievances and disillusionment of the Muslim world with its state of affairs.
Renowned as the East’s philosopher-poet and the spiritual architect of Pakistan, Allama Iqbal’s Urdu and Farsi poetry, which seeks to rejuvenate Islamic thought and spirituality, has left an indelible mark on the cultural and intellectual fabric of South Asia and the Persian-speaking world.
This epic new musical work is written and composed by Rushil Ranjan, vocalized by Abi Sampa and performed by Manchester Camerata. Join us for what promises to be a wonderful evening featuring the first orchestral interpretation of Muhammad Iqbal’s work.
About the Musicians
Abi Sampa
Multi-instrumentalist, Qawwa–l and veena virtuoso, Abi Sampa has become a genre-defying focal point within contemporary Sufi and fusion music. Her ability to seamlessly mix different styles and her command over both Western and Indian classical music have garnered praise from all corners of the music industry. Having built upon her astonishing success on the talent show The Voice UK, she has since gone on to release a multitude of Sufi-influenced work—all to great critical acclaim.
Rushil Ranjan
Rushil is a multi-disciplinary and genre-defying artist and composer based in London. His work across contemporary, Sufi and classical music has earned him a reputation as one of the most distinctive and exciting musical voices around today.
Manchester Camerata Orchestra
The Manchester Camerata is a British chamber orchestra. Manchester Camerata prides itself on an original combination of craft and courage. With 5-star reviews from The Independent, as well as the accolade of being hailed ‘Britain’s most adventurous orchestra’ (The Times).
They are passionate about the traditional craft of an orchestra and how it is evolving. By excelling artistically and having the courage to prioritise bold, compelling and diverse projects, Camerata makes a positive difference not only to their audiences but to the health and wellbeing of their communities as well.
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