"We are searching for any kind of music. It's been six years since I heard music. There are no words to explain the happiness I think I will feel when I hear it."
--Ajmal, age 16, Jalalabad, Afghanistan, quoted in the New York Times, November 20, 2001
The above quote partially inspired William Harvey to start Cultures in Harmony in 2005. On July 4, 2009, he was named Violin/Viola Teacher by the Ministry of Education of Afghanistan. On March 21, 2010, he began teaching at the Afghanistan National Institute of Music, founded by Dr. Ahmad Sarmast.
Cultures in Harmony will provide logistical assistance to former CiH project participant Robin Ryczek, who is coming to Kabul to join William on the faculty as the new cello teacher. Additionally, we will bring pianist Allegra Boggess to Kabul for a two-week residency in 2010 to join William in support of Dr. Sarmast's vision of an Afghanistan where children have access to the highest quality musical education.
The project will be an extraordinary opportunity to bring Cultures in Harmony back to the reasons for its founding. Furthermore, it will cement the bonds of friendship between Afghans and Americans.
