In 2015, the all-female Zohra ensemble was formed. Initially a small chamber group, it soon grew into what is now a twenty-five-piece orchestra, comprised of both Western classical and traditional Afghan instruments.

Zohra Orchestra has received international recognition through numerous awards including the Queen Soraya Award, the 2017 Freemuse Award, Success for Women of Afghanistan from the Institute for Peace, Media, and Good Governance, the Montluc Resistance Liberte Award 2018; as well as recognition in local and international media.

Join us on this spectacular occasion, as we celebrate the 100th Anniversary of Afghanistan’s Reclamation of Independence and the 50th Anniversary of Afghanistan-Australia Diplomatic Relations. With the intention of facilitating cross-cultural collaboration and establishing vital people-to-people links, Zohra Orchestra will be collaborating with twelve female students of the Sydney Conservatorium of Music to present a unique blend of culture, music and artistry from the two nations.

Initiated and led by the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in cooperation with the Government of Australia and the Government of New South Wales, the collaborative component of Zohra Orchestra’s tour will act as a platform for the development of future artistic collaborations, institutional partnerships and cultural exchanges between Afghanistan and Australia .

Click here to learn more or to book – https://www.sydneyoperahouse.com/events/whats-on/Contemporary-Music/2019/zohra-orchestra.html

”I am delighted to offer a warm welcome to the brave and inspiring members of the Zohra Orchestra as they play at the Sydney Opera House. Their concert marks the 50th anniversary of bilateral relations between Afghanistan and Australia and coincides with 100 years of Afghanistan’s independence. Members of the orchestra embody the nation’s achievements in empowering girls and women, and its success in rebuilding its cultural and economic future after more than 30 years of war and civic turmoil. This remarkable tour will provide audiences with unique insights into Afghani musical traditions and enable extraordinary young musicians to share their musical gifts and stories across culltures. As Premier of NSW, I am proud to support and welcome this tour, which strengthens and celebrates relations between our two countries.” 

The Hon. Gladys Berejiklian MP, Premier of New South Wales

Presented by Embassy of Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Canberra

afghanaustralia.com.au