The Farid Ayaz Qawwal Qawwali Ensemble is one of the most distinguished qawwali groups in Pakistan. Emerging from samma', a Sufi ritual performance of ecstatic poetry accompanied by music, qawwali integrates love poetry, devotional imagery, musical rhythms and melodies, gesture, and movement to spur moments of spiritual rapture. Cultivated in South Asia since the thirteenth century, the tradition has inspired poets, spiritual seekers, and popular audiences; it has also evoked strong criticism from those who question the legitimacy of music in Islam. Pre-concert discussion at 6:30 pm.