Young Afghan musicians flee Taliban rule for U.S. tour

In the fall of 2021, nearly 300 young musicians, along with their teachers and staff from the Afghanistan National Institute of Music, fled Afghanistan due to the Taliban's resurgence. This group, representing a diverse cross-section of Afghan society, was airlifted to Portugal with the help of the governments of Qatar and Portugal. They settled in northern Portugal, near Braga, where they aimed to preserve and promote their rich musical heritage. The musicians expressed a deep sense of responsibility to be the voice of a country that has lost its musical expression under Taliban rule. The director of the school emphasized the urgency of their mission, which now includes advocating for the cultural and musical rights of the Afghan people. The musicians are committed to using their art as a form of freedom of expression, despite being thousands of miles away from their homeland. They have found kindness and support in Portugal, where they are working to recreate the musical heart of Afghanistan. As they embark on a U.S. tour, including a performance at Carnegie Hall, the musicians are excited to share their story and music with a broader audience. They view this opportunity as a platform to raise awareness about the plight of Afghan culture and the importance of music in their lives. Their performances serve not only as a means of artistic expression but also as a reminder of the cultural richness that exists in Afghanistan. Ultimately, these young musicians are determined to continue their work and ensure that the music of Afghanistan is not forgotten. They are dedicated to being a voice for their country, refusing to be silenced by the circumstances that forced them to flee.