Saami Brothers Khayal with special guest Ustad Naseeruddin Saami
Origins Series
Saturday, October 4, 2025
Doors: 7 PM | Show: 8 PM
Merkin Hall at Kaufman Music Center – 129 West 67th Street, Manhattan
Tickets: $35 | $45 | $55 – **Tickets Will Go On Sale Soon**
WMI Member Prices: $28 | $36 | $44
The Saami family are the living custodians of the Delhi Qawwal Bacha Gharana – a musical school of thought — founded in the 14th century by the legendary Sufi poet, musician, and scholar Amir Khusrau by combining Persian, Turkish, Arabic and South Asian elements. The Saami family is the last family to preserve this tradition in its purest form and are true masters of Khayal—a word that roughly translates to “imagination.” As exemplary vocalists, they are capable of producing a rarely heard 49-note microtonal scale relayed in a manner that uses few words sung in unending variations.
Rarely is khayal presented in its pure form. This evening offers the opportunity to experience the sacred soundscape of Khayal in its most authentic expression, with Ustads Rauf and Urooj on vocals, Ahmed Saami on harmonium, and their father, the revered Ustad Naseeruddin Saami, appearing as a special guest. For this event, the vocals will be accentuated by sarangi – a bowed stringed instrument which mimics the sound and depth of voice as well as tabla. Together, they will perform the intricate, transcendent soundscapes of Khayal, guiding audiences on an immersive journey through rhythm, melody, and mystic verse.
Audiences are encouraged to surrender to the spiritual and healing power of this largely wordless music. Even without understanding the lyrics, one can simply close their eyes and travel with these remarkable vocalists on a profound sonic journey.
Promotional support provided by the Center for Cultural Vibrancy.
The Origins series features artists who delve into the folklore and roots of their respective cultures’ music to tell the story of their origins, preserving and affirming cultural identities and legacies.