ISLAMABAD: Celebrated classical guitarist Pedro Joia from Portugal and respected Pakistani musician Arieb Azhar came together on Wednesday in a concert for a transcendental musical recital where Portuguese guitar melodies met the soul of Sufi verses.

Celebrating Bilateral Ties through Soulful Strings, the Serena Hotels, in collaboration with the Embassy of Portugal hosted the performance titled, Soulful Strings: Portugal and Pakistan, a great musical journey that brought together two remarkable traditions through the universal language of music.

The evening featured a mesmerising performance by celebrated Portuguese classical guitarist and composer Pedro Joia and Pakistani musician Arieb Azhar, who captivated the audience with a soulful fusion of Portuguese guitar melodies and the spiritual depth of Sufi verse.

This artistic collaboration highlighted the richness of both cultures and offered a profound, meditative experience to all in attendance. Before entertaining audience in Islamabad, Pedro Joia had enthralled guests in Lahore.

Tracing his musical journey, the artist said he went to Andalusia, which was in the South of Spain, where Flamenco guitar was born. That experience changed his life. “Seeing someone play classical jazz guitar sparked a passion in me – I knew that’s what I wanted to do,” he said.

He said he took private lessons for over four years from his mentor, who not only taught him how to play the guitar but also guided me him how a performer should overcome stage fright and engage the audience.

The event saw a gathering of members of the diplomatic community, along with representatives from the corporate sector and media personalities, all converged to celebrate the power of music as a bridge between nations.

Speaking at the event, Ambassador of Portugal Frederico Silvashared, “This collaboration is a celebration of the shared cultural values of Portugal and Pakistan. Music is a profound medium that transcends borders, and this event is evidence to the continuing friendship and mutual appreciation between our two countries.”

Published in Dawn, May 29th, 2025