BBC Asian Network celebrates A Summer of Music

This summer

the BBC Asian Network is bringing the biggest, best and newest Asian music around to audiences across the UK. From huge stars to live broadcasts from some of the biggest events in the calendar, the Asian Network will be at the heart of the action.

Mark Strippel, Head of Programmes for the Asian Network, said: “BBC Asian Network is a leading platform for championing new BritisAsian and global South-Asian music. Our events this summer, from our New Music Day at Maida Vale to London Mela and the Proms live from the Royal Albert Hall demonstrate the unparalleled range, depth and quality of our output. The station is a central part of the BBC music portfolio and our position is stronger and clearer than ever. We have some amazing content to deliver to our audience this year.
The jandar of events kicked off today  at the Asian Network New Music Day. One of the first events of its kind to showcase new British Asian talent, the day featured performances by artists who have already made it onto the British Asian music scene in front of listeners at thgendary Maida Vale studios. Acts including rapper Riz MCacclaimed producer Naughty Boy and Bhangra star Jaz Dhami wowed the audience, with performances also by Abi Sampa from The Voice, Sonna Rele, The Elements, Cynikal, Steel Banglez, Lost Souljah, Jaykae, Driving Lolita, Lippi, Swaati and more.
On Saturday an Network will be recording a rare performance by one of Palegendary female Sufi singearveen. Her classical training in Sufi Kalaam and one of the most unique voices of the last 3a rarely performs outside her native Pakistan. Sometimes known as the female equivalent to Nusrat, she performs ghazals, qawallis and sufi kallaams in an intimate Manchester setting. The performance will be broadcast at a later date this summer.
Also on Saturday 6 July the first Mela of the season kicks off at Platt Fields Park in Manchester. One of the biggest outdoor events in the North West, attracting nearly le from across the area, the day will be full of activities and stalls for the all the family to enjoy. Artists on the line-up include Jaz Dhami, Saini Surinder, Zeus, Bilal Saeed, Nafees, Sama Blake, Bonafide. These performances will be filmed for and recorded tracks played across the network from Sundayuly.
As part of the BBC Prom season, on MondayAugust Asian Network and BBC Radio 3 will come together to simulcast the world premiere of NishatBC commission The Gate Of The Moon performed by the composer himself, and Holst’s In musical portrayal of the Hindu god of rain and storm. David Atherton conducts the BBC National Orchestra of Walesk.