SONG OF LAHORE

Director Andy Schocken,Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy / 2015 / Pakistan,USA

"It's unlikely any other music doc could have the same combination of rousing music, emotional clout and social and political import." – The Wrap

Lahore was once known for its songs and sounds, the city humming after Pakistan's 1947 independence. Then came the nation's 1977 Islamist coup, effectively outlawing music.

But dedicated musicians furtively kept the melody alive, fusing traditional and Western styles. When their rendition of Dave Brubeck's Take Five went viral, Wynton Marsalis took notice, inviting them to play at the Jazz at Lincoln Center.

Filmmakers Andy Schocken and Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy (Pakistan's first Oscar winner) chart their journey from their Sachal Studios base to the public attention of the New York stage, as Pakistani and American jazz performers collaborate and navigate their differences. Delving into the dramas of this meeting of musical minds and cultures, their inspiring story celebrates the joy of song and demonstrates the importance of artistic reclamation.

"Superb … an exquisite reminder of what the function of art is in all cultures: to preserve, and celebrate, our humanity." – The Upcoming

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