Prominent Portuguese guitarist Pedro Joia captivated audiences in Lahore with a mesmerizing performance at the International Jazz Festival held at the Alhamra Arts Center.
The event was part of an ongoing cultural program organized by the Embassy of Portugal, in collaboration with the Camoes Institute for Cooperation and Language, I.P., Emirates Airlines, the Honorary Consul of Portugal in Lahore, and the International Jazz Festival, said a press release issued here. Following his initial performance in Islamabad on May 23 at the Silk Road Cultural Center, Pedro Joia’s Lahore engagement included not only a headline concert,but also two highly engaging masterclasses aimed at fostering artistic exchange and musical collaboration.
The first masterclass was co-organized by Agha Khan Cultural Services, Lahore and Olomopolo Media, drawing in young musicians and instrumentalists eager to learn from the acclaimed artist. The second session took place at the Alhamra Arts Center, where Padro Joia shared insights into his signature style, fusing traditional Portuguese guitar with contemporary and world music influences.
Pedro Joia’s visit marks a significant cultural milestone, celebrating the shared heritage of musical expression and strengthening artistic ties between Portugal and Pakistan. His interaction with local artists and audiences highlighted music’s power as a universal language, capable of bridging cultures and inspiring creativity across borders.
Moreover, The Lahore Arts Council continues to play a pivotal role in nurturing Pakistan’s artistic future through its flagship initiative, the Alhamra Academy of Performing Arts. With a strong commitment to creativity, discipline, and cultural heritage, the academy is emerging as a vital hub for training and mentoring the country’s next generation of artists, a spokesperson for the council said. Offering expert-led instruction across a broad range of disciplines, including acting, drama, classical and contemporary music, dance, sculpture, and visual arts, the academy is equipping hundreds of young students with the skills and inspiration needed to thrive in the creative world. Renowned professionals lead each area of study: Ustad Abdul Rauf guides vocal music students, while sculptor Maisam Abbas and visual artists Amjad Naeem and Zarmina Aslam provide hands-on training in drawing, painting, and sculpture. Classical instruments such as the sitar, violin, harmonium, guitar, and flute are taught by masters including Ustad Saleem Khan, Ustad Abdul Wahab, Sajjad Tafu, Chand Khan, and Naushad Ali Khan. In theatre arts, senior instructor Qaiser Javed imparts performance techniques to aspiring actors.
More than just a training ground, the Academy fosters cultural awareness by connecting students with Pakistan’s rich artistic heritage. Through a disciplined and passion-driven environment, Alhamra is not only preserving traditional art forms but also cultivating contemporary expressions of creativity.
Speaking on the academy’s mission, Alhamra Executive Director Tauqeer Haider Kazmi said, “Alhamra Academy is not just a place of learning, it is a sanctuary where talent is shaped, identities are rooted in heritage, and excellence is pursued with discipline.
