‘Sufi Night: Faiz Ali Faiz - Lila Borsali’

The guest of honour at Sufi Night 2024 is the Pakistani singer Faiz Ali Faiz. BBC Radio 3 and NPR have been enormous fans for years of his personal yet faithful interpretation of Qawwali, the age-old Sufi singing tradition. Faiz Ali Faiz is rightfully considered to be the successor to the legendary Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, and he represents the eighth generation of a family that has devoted itself entirely to Qawwali. His wide range, complete surrender to the music and powerful attacks have made him a sensation who has introduced many people all over the world to a spiritual form of music that may still be unfamiliar. Accompanied by his seasoned musicians, he is continuing his international spiritual journey.     

As one of the most important representatives of Arab-Andalusian music, Lila Borsali bridges the gap between Europe and North Africa. The Algerian singer and composer specialises in musical, poetic suites called Noubaat and a derivative of that form, Hawzii. Guided by the teachings of Sufism, Borsali has discovered that her voice is more than merely a musical instrument: it has become a powerful means of spiritual expression and unity. Thanks to her many years of dedication to Sufi music, Borsali has become an ambassador for the cultural heritage and spiritual enlightenment it offers.