Bamyan by Philippe Hersant

Bamyan is renowned for the 'Buddhas of Bamyan', iconic sculptures carved between the 2nd and 4th centuries AD, showcasing ancient artistic and spiritual prowess of Afghanistan. These monumental statues were carved directly into the cliff face, surrounded by a labyrinth of corridors, galleries, and hundreds of prayer halls meticulously carved over centuries. At its peak, this site hosted two thousand monks meditating in the sandstone caves. Tragically, in 2001, the Buddhas were destroyed by the Taliban, an immense cultural and historical loss for Afghanistan. Adding to the devastation, the Taliban later used the caves at the statues' base to store weapons, further desecrating this once sacred site.

"In this piece I remember a music heard in Afghanistan, this beautiful country that I had the chance to visit before the devastating wars... Bamyan is the city were the two giant Buddhas stand nestled in a cliff, destroyed a few years ago by the Talibans. The music I've heard is never out of my memory and I quote it repeatedly in my piece - which gives it an undeniable oriental fragrance. Bamyan was written for Contest International Harp Laskine Lily as the set piece in 2002. It is dedicated to Marielle Nordman." (Philippe HERSANT)

This piece serves as a meditation on beauty and barbarism, coaxing listeners into a reflective state of mourning and contemplation.