Celebrating cultures: a fusion of sounds at Annemarie-Schimmel-Haus

LAHORE: On a vibrant Monday evening, the Annemarie-Schimmel-Haus, a prominent German Cultural Centre in Lahore, hosted an enchanting German Fusion Concert featuring the band ‘Berlin to Lahore.’ The garden was filled with an enthusiastic crowd from all walks of life, who gathered to celebrate the band’s mesmerizing performance.

The trio, composed of Ustad Ashraf Sharif Khan on sitar, Christoph Reuter on keyboard, and Thomas Rüdiger on percussion, captivated the audience with their unique blend of musical traditions. Having last performed in Pakistan a decade ago, the band returned to mark their 10th anniversary with concerts in major cities including Lahore, Islamabad, and Karachi.

Shehnaz Adnan, the Deputy Director of the Annemarie-Schimmel-Haus, shared insights about the band’s members and their artistic journey. Christoph Reuter, an accomplished pianist who studied jazz in Berlin and Leipzig, took center stage to showcase pieces from his latest album. Among the highlights were evocative tracks like “Shalimar Garden,” “50 Miles to Lahore,” “Lahore Funky,” and “Beginning of the Love.” The audience was so enthralled that they called for an encore of “Shalimar Garden,” which prompted enthusiastic applause.

Also read: Bridging Cultures: Australian High Commissioner Discusses Lahore’s Rich Heritage and Hospitality

Reuter’s travels and interactions have deeply influenced his music. He has performed extensively across Germany and internationally, contributing to various musical projects and releasing multiple CDs. His compositional repertoire includes three piano concertos, four oratorios, and music for orchestras and theater.

The band members have also embraced Lahore’s rich heritage during their visit, exploring cultural landmarks like the Masjid Wazir Khan and the historic Shahi Hamam. Ashraf Sharif Khan, the sitar virtuoso and a Lahore native, has roots steeped in musical tradition. The son of the esteemed Ustad Muhammad Sharif Khan Poonchwala, he has made a name for himself internationally, winning accolades such as the Khwaja Khurshid Anwar Award and performing at festivals around the globe.

Completing the trio is Thomas Rüdiger, whose innovative percussion style merges traditional drumming with world music influences. His studies in tabla in India and diverse performances have shaped his unique sound, further enriching the band’s musical tapestry.

The concert was not just a celebration of music, but a heartfelt connection between cultures, reminding everyone present of the universal language of art. As the evening drew to a close, it was clear that ‘Berlin to Lahore’ had created a memorable experience that bridged continents through melody and rhythm.