Since its inception, Sangat! has performed to enthusiastic audiences in Pakistan as well as in Texas. Comprised of faculty and students from Karachi’s National Academy for the Performing Arts and the UT-Austin Butler School of Music, Sangat! combines elements from Pakistani classical, folk and Qawwali Sufi music, intermixed with Middle Eastern and Western styles, dipping into reggae, rock, and jazz. The name Sangat comes from the Sanskrit term that signifies coming together in friendship. The group is comprised of people from several regions of Pakistan (Sindh, Punjab, former Indian territories), the US and Taiwan as well as religious affiliations (Sunni Islam, Shi’a Islam, Mystical Sufi Islam, Christian, Buddhist, Jewish and spiritual secularists. Sangat! has acquired an enthusiastic Pakistani following and national media attention for both their original sound and the significance of collaboration between people from diverse backgrounds and genders. Sangat! seeks to counter stereotypes and engage audiences in the celebration of our common musical humanity by bringing together diverse musicians and voices to bridge cultures and inspire compassion, peace, and harmony.

[Programming descriptions are generated by participants and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of SXSW.]