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Risking it all to bring music back to Afghanistan

Ahmad Sarmast, creator of Afghanistan's first national symphony orchestra and music school, on reviving the country's rich musical tradition.
What does music mean in a country where it was once forbidden? Dr. Ahmad Sarmast on bringing joyful noise back to his nation. (Dr. Sarmast's Music School)

Ahmad Sarmast — creator of Afghanistan's first national symphony orchestra and music school — has dedicated his life to reviving his country's rich musical tradition. 

Sarmast joins guest host Piya Chattopadhyay to discuss the joys, challenges and real dangers of championing music in a nation that once banned the art form. 

WEB EXTRA | Sarmast's work was the subject of a documentary, Dr. Sarmast's Music School, in 2012. Watch the trailer below.