Global Fusion celebrates a decade in Dubai

Pandit Vishwamohan Bhatt at Global Fusion 2014. credit: courtesy Global Fusion

A decade of international sounds were celebrated recently in Dubai.

The annual Global Fusion concert, organised by the investment bank Alpen Capital, was held for its tenth consecutive year on February 1 at the Jumeriah Beach Hotel.

Headlining the bash were an eclectic array of artists led by Grammy award winner Pandit Vishwamohan Bhatt performing on the Mohan Veena; a specially modified instrument that is a cross between a Spanish guitar and sitar.

Also on stage were British acoustic guitarist Louis Banks, Indian Keyboardist Ranjit, the Dutch harpist Gwyneth Wentink, Egypt’s father and son duo Mohammed and Mohamed Farghaly (yup, both have the exact same name) on the oud and Qanoon and India’s Satyajit Talwalkar on the Tabla.

The UAE contingent was represented by Emirati violinist Khawlah Alrayhi and Dubai based bassist Elie Afif.

“Global Fusion was first organized to mark the launch of Alpen Capital ten years ago,” said Alpen Capital executive chairman Rohit Walia.

“It is amazing to see that what started as a client networking event has evolved into a brand in itself featuring around 107 internationally renowned musicians from around the globe. I am very glad that our clients and special guests joined us in our ten year celebrations and enjoyed the musical experience last evening.”