Dawn:  August 12, 2017

Pakistan will mark its 70th Independence Day at the United Nations (UN) with a concert in the General Assembly hall on August 14.

Organised by Pakistan's mission in the UN, the concert will feature the acclaimed Sachal Jazz Ensemble, which specialises in a blend of traditional and the modern music, Radio Pakistan reported.

The concert will be an hour and a half long and is titled 'Music Beyond Borders'. It is aimed at spreading the message of international peace and harmony at the world stage, the state-run broadcaster said.

The concert is expected to be attended by diplomats, UN officials, representatives of civil society, media and members of the Pakistani diaspora.

The event has already generated much interest and enthusiasm.

Pakistan's Ambassador to the UN, Dr Maleeha Lodhi, said the concert is an effort to project Pakistan's soft image and present the country's rich culture.

"Public diplomacy is the most effective way to win hearts and minds, and this [event] aims to do just that," Lodhi said.

The Sachal Jazz Ensemble produces innovative jazz music by deriving inspiration from both eastern and western music.

Their cover of Dave Brubeck’s iconic 'Take Five' was termed as “the most interesting and different recording of 'Take Five' that I have ever heard” by the jazz legend.

The group has performed in multiple jazz festivals around the world, including at the Lincoln Centre and have performed live on international channels like the BBC.

The group's rendition of the famous Game of Thrones theme went viral on social media and was widely applauded by fans.

The group was formed by London-based businessman-turned-studio boss Izzat Majeed, who aims to provide Pakistani musicians a platform where they can make music and revive the music industry of Pakistan.