I had the privilege of attending Silkroad's Global Musician Workshop (GMW) in 2023, and it was truly one of the most inspiring musical experiences of my life.
Over the course of the week, the program brought together musicians from around the world, culminating in five unforgettable concerts where faculty and participants shared the stage. These performances were unlike anything I had ever experienced—new arrangements came to life, weaving together the musical traditions of India, Mali, the United States, China, Lebanon, and so many more places.
Nearly 80 musicians from 25 countries stood side by side, creating a sound that felt both deeply personal and beautifully universal.
One of the most meaningful moments for me was performing live at the legendary Jordan Hall at the New England Conservatory in Boston, sharing the stage with incredible artists like Abeer Nehme, Mike Block, and Kala Ramnath. Standing there, surrounded by such extraordinary talent, I felt a sense of connection that went beyond language and borders.
This experience reminded me why I fell in love with music in the first place—it’s about sharing stories, bridging cultures, and creating something larger than ourselves.