Born in Afghanistan’s North-Eastern Region of Badakhshan, Murad had been inspired to pursue music since his childhood. One of the first influential figures that encouraged his journey was his father, Shah Zarab. As a child he would accompany his father playing the Daf, and uncovering a love and passion for all things music and culture.
However, it wasn’t until the age of 14 that Mohammad Murad firmly decided on his vocation. While assembling a musical instrument, he became distracted and suffered a deep cut to his finger. His teacher approached and instead of reprimanding him, said the words, “you’ll become an artist.” He immediately stopped crying, and felt an incredible sense of calm and motivation. What might seem a memory to forget has remained with Murad many years later.
“It left a lasting mark on me, and I knew my path in life was music.”
He pursued an education in music, mastering complex techniques and making rapid progress early on. He learnt the Awj rhythm, an intricate technique only a handful of artists had mastered at the time. He was also the lead singer of a choir in his fourth year of high school. Throughout, Murad was guided by his music instructor, Ali Dad Mayel, as he ventured further into the field.
Over the years, Murad gained more knowledge, skills and eventually a Master’s degree in music. Growing his expertise enabled him to clearly identify specific goals he wanted to pursue, which include preserving the cultural heritage and traditions of Afghanistan, improving the quality of life through music, promoting cultural diplomacy through music, and advancing music through education.
Today, these goals are deeply embedded in Murad’s projects. A notable milestone, has been establishing the Shighnan Music School, now known as the Shighnan Multidisciplinary Institute. Murad describes his experience as “a dream come true,”setting up a centre dedicated to educating youth about science and culture, from which thousands of young people have benefited.
Creating the Pamir Music Group has also been a great success for Murad. The group placed first out of 53 countries in the 2013 global music festival ‘Songs of the East’ sponsored by UNESCO.
“This victory allowed us to better understand our role in preserving and promoting our music, both nationally and internationally,” he explained.
Throughout his career, and now based in Portugal, Murad endeavours to remain true and authentic in his work.
“Finding balance is a constant process,” he says, “but I always strive to remain authentic to my vision while also respecting the needs and feelings of my audience.”
He’s constantly developing as a professional and listening to feedback from others “I believe in open communication and feedback, which allows me to adjust without compromising my core values.”
