This project is currently in the organizational phase. With a deep love for music and culture, we are working on a crowdfunding campaign to make it possible for these exceptional musicians to travel from Pakistan to the Netherlands. Due to the current circumstances in Pakistan, the visa application process also requires extra care and attention.
The musicians will give several concerts and performances, with the sharing of their music and stories at the heart of each event. They come from the Dera Bugti district in Balochistan and belong to the Bugti tribe. Their musical knowledge and experience have been passed down from an early age; they grew up with this music and have carried the tradition with them since childhood. Their music is powerful and deeply connected to their land, culture, and heritage. Stories about the origins and meanings of the songs enrich the listening experience and add depth. The performances form the heart of the project and offer audiences a rare and authentic musical encounter.
An important part of Altai’s mission and vision is to invite people to experience culture and music up close. This is realized through educational programs and workshops.
Under the guidance of the musicians, we organize workshops that offer participants a unique opportunity to learn directly from the source:
This project emerged from a shared love for music, art, and culture. What began as curiosity and mutual recognition grew into a collaboration that transcends borders and brings people together through stories and melodies.
Rowan Hartsuiker has been engaged with throat singing for over twenty years, with a strong focus on traditions from Mongolia. At the same time, he knew that throat singing exists in many other cultures, including Balochistan. In 2025, he shared a short video about the Nar Sur tradition, which was picked up by the online Balochi community and marked the beginning of a special encounter.
Through this, Rowan came into contact with Asad, a musician from Balochistan with a dream of one day sharing his music and culture with audiences in Europe. Soon after, Mehrab joined the project. Born and raised in Balochistan and now living and working in the Netherlands, he brought the cultural context and connection that completed the collaboration.
Despite the complex situation in Balochistan (Pakistan), we are working step by step—supported by the Balochi community—toward a project in which music, culture, and people are central.
At this moment, we are working on:
Would you like to support us? Stay informed via the contact form or contribute through our crowdfunding campaign.
Behind this project are people from different backgrounds who come together around one shared belief: that music and culture can connect people, especially in challenging times.
Asad is a highly skilled Algoza player and is regarded as one of the most accomplished musicians within the Nar Sur tradition. The algoza consists of two connected flutes: one for the melody and one for the drone. Through the distinctive breathing technique, rapidly reclaiming breath on each beat, he creates the characteristic rhythm central to traditional Balochi music. Asad has been playing for many years with passion and dedication, performing at concerts, weddings, and community celebrations. He belongs to the Bugti tribe and fulfills the role of Narri (flute player).
Ameen is a young and promising musical talent from the Bugti tribe, deeply connected to his cultural heritage. He began his musical journey playing the Dambiro, the Balochi Tambura and, after the passing of his father—a respected musician who died in an accident in 2020—he followed in his footsteps by mastering the art. Through this instrument, A supports his family and carries forward an important cultural legacy. His playing is rich, rhythmic, and soulful, forming a strong foundation within the trio and reflecting the u traditions of Balochistan.
Haider Ali is a highly respected and experienced Nar Sur throat singer from Balochistan and a member of the Bugti tribe. Within the Nar Sur tradition, he fulfills the role of Surri (throat singer). When the algoza and Dambiro are played, Haider blends the sound of his throat with the instruments and brings Balochi poetry to life through song. His voice carries stories, emotion, and tradition, creating performances that deeply resonate with listeners and are received with great enthusiasm.
Rowan and Saran are the founders of Altai and work from the Netherlands to share living musical traditions and cultures. Their work centers on encounter, respect for origin, and cultural transmission. Through Altai, they create spaces where music, storytelling, and hospitality come together.
Mehrab is originally from Balochistan and currently lives and works in the Netherlands. He is a lecturer and researcher in sustainable food chains and an interactive documentary maker. In addition, he produces electronic music and explores how traditional melodies can find new forms.
We are currently working with great care and dedication on the next steps of the project. As soon as the planning is finalized, the exact dates for concerts and workshops will be shared here.Would you like to stay informed and be the first to receive updates? Please fill in the form below. Would you like to support the project and help make this possible? Visit our crowdfunding page.
