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LAHORE: Olomopolo Media, in collaboration with Aga Khan Cultural Service, Pakistan, and the Embassy of Portugal, organised a masterclass led by celebrated Portuguese guitarist and composer, Pedro Jóia at the Olo Junction in Muslim Town.
During the masterclass, Jóia gave insights into the genre of music he performs and the musical traditions that influenced his work. He demonstrated the daily practice he does for half an hour, stating, “It is like a walk”.
“Music has a lot of engineering and a lot of repetition. Music is all about daily practice,” he said.
Tracing his musical journey, he said: “I went to Andalusia, which is in the South of Spain, where Flamenco guitar was born. That experience changed my life. Seeing someone play classical jazz guitar sparked a passion in me – I knew that’s what I wanted to do”.
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.
He said Portugal’s music is diverse and has influences stemming from different regions within Europe and beyond. “I am from Lisbon, the Capital of Portugal, where we have a strong tradition of Fado music. I have incorporated elements of Fado music into the music I play. The feeling of Fado music is nostalgic. Some 500 years ago when some people of Portugal went on an expedition to explore new civilisations and lifestyles. We had an instinct to mix with new cultures. They travelled far away from home and felt homesick, so their music had sadness, nostalgia and longing.”Jóia then gave a demonstration of Fado music.
During the session, Jóia shared his love for Pakistani music, saying: “I love Pakistani music. At the age of 15, I came into contact with [the music of] Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and Sabri Brothers. Music from South Asia really touches my heart; it is truly incredible. The guitar is like the grandchild of old wooden instruments like the Rubab and Sitar.”
Frederico Silva, Ambassador of Portugal to Pakistan, who attended the event as chief guest, concluded the event by sharing his thoughts. He also performed a musical piece on the guitar, besides singing a song.
“We are very happy to collaborate with Aga Khan Cultural Service and Olomopolo Media. I have been in Pakistan for around two years. I have learnt that culture is one of the best tools I can use in my line of work, as my job is not only to connect countries but also their people.”
Olomopolo Media Executive Director Kanwal Khoosat, said: “It was an absolute pleasure to host Pedro Jóia at Olomopolo. Cultural exchange through the arts has always been a cornerstone of our work, and today we are fortunate to experience an incredible performance that beautifully fused Portuguese and Spanish classical traditions.”
Aga Khan Cultural Service, Pakistan, CEO said: “This successful collaboration with Olomopolo and the Portuguese Embassy has been heartening, and the masterclass was truly a learning experience. The audience turnout and engagement demonstrate the power of music to bridge cultures and inspire creativity. I look forward to similar enriching future endeavors that involve cultural exchange.”
Published in Dawn, May 26th, 2025
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