Day two of the Folklife Festival ended with a welcome surprise of cross-culture. Homayoun Sakhi and Salar Nader from Sounds of California invited Basque accordionist Kepa Junkera, along with Sorginak member Eneritz Aulestia, on stage for the conclusion of the concert.

Despite a language barrier and no time to rehearse, the blend of Afghan and Basque music seemed to be a natural combination. During their one song together, the two duos traded improvised solos as well as verses in their native languages, Dari and Euskara. The collaboration proved that sharing and experiencing cultures is a positive, worthwhile mission.

Videography: Andrea Curran, Joshua Davis, Caleb Hamilton, Lillie Schneyer, Ryan Shank, Abby Sternberg
Editing: Ryan Shank

Ryan Shank is a video production intern for the Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage. He studies telecommunications and history at Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana.

This concert was presented in collaboration with Aga Khan Music Initiative, a program of Aga Khan Trust for Culture.