Qudrat Wasefi

Qudrat Wasefi is a trumpeter, composer, educator, young leader, and advocate whose work bridges art and social justice. Born in Afghanistan and now based in the U.S., he studied composition at the Longy School of Music of Bard College. His music draws on Afghan traditions, contemporary classical forms, and lived experiences of displacement, resilience, and hope. Beyond performance and composition, Qudrat is committed to amplifying silenced voices, particularly Afghan women. He has organized concerts honoring women’s rights fighters in Afghanistan. He believes music is an essential tool for bringing communities together and fostering human connection. Through his music, he promotes peace, freedom, and solidarity. Ultimately, his dream is to return to Afghanistan and improve the lives of Afghan children through the power of music.

Leyla Zeynalova

Leyla Zeynalova is an internationally acclaimed, award-winning pianist and educator, known for her artistry, technical mastery, and commitment to musical excellence. A laureate of prestigious competitions - including the Eisemann International Competition (USA), F.Chopin Competition (Estonia), and EPTA (Belgium) - she was also a national finalist in the MTNA Chamber Competition. Her performances have taken her across Europe, the Middle East, and North America, including concerts in the U.S., U.K., Germany, Latvia, Georgia, and the UAE. A passionate chamber musician, she co-founded the Fabula Trio, which made its New York debut this May at The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Leyla is a prizewinner of EMCY (European Union of Music Competitions for Youth) and the recipient of numerous prestigious honors, including the Roman Totenberg Artistry Award (USA), Emerging Artist Award by the St. Botolph Foundation (USA), Longy Endowed Scholarship, and the Youth Award from the Republic of Azerbaijan. She was also awarded the Bärenreiter Urtext Award in Germany. Recognized for her artistic excellence, she was included in the “Golden Book” of young talents of Azerbaijan by Presidential decree and granted a special President Scholarship. Leyla Zeynalova is currently a Doctor of Musical Arts candidate at Boston University College of Fine Arts on a full scholarship, working as a Graduate Assistant Pianist for the BU Wind Ensemble. She is also the piano faculty and collaborative pianist of the Attacca School of Music.

Leyla Gahramanova

Leyla Gahramanova is a soprano known for her expressive vocal interpretations and versatile style. A recent graduate of the Longy School of Music of Bard College with a Master’s in Vocal Performance, she has performed in various national and international concerts and music productions. Leyla performs with the Cambridge Chamber Singers and also teaches vocal classes. As a respected artist and mentor, she continues to inspire others through her commitment to vocal artistry and nurturing emerging talent.