Highlights:
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Orchestral Qawwali Project confirmed for Thursday night, 9 July 2026
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Rushil Ranjan and Abi Sampa to present a full symphonic qawwali performance
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Part of a weeklong global music and dance program featuring major headline acts
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Tickets start at £45 with general sale beginning 26 November
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The Orchestral Qawwali Project will headline the Thursday night event at the 2026 Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod, marking its first appearance at the Welsh festival. The booking positions the ensemble at the front of a global lineup that brings artists, choirs, and performers from across the world to one of the UK’s most recognized cultural events. The group’s rising demand across the live circuit has made it one of the most anticipated additions to next year’s program.
The announcement reflects the continued momentum behind the Orchestral Qawwali Project’s blend of classical orchestration and qawwali, a style that has been steadily gaining mainstream visibility across major venues and festivals.
Why Qawwali in an Orchestral Format Draws Audiences
The ensemble is known for presenting qawwali within a full orchestral structure. Rushil Ranjan writes and directs the compositions, while Abi Sampa leads the vocals. Their shows have sold out major UK venues including Royal Albert Hall, Birmingham Symphony Hall, and Brighton Dome.
Reviews have consistently highlighted the scale and impact of the format. The Financial Times described the project as “rapturously energetic,” while the Glasgow Guardian wrote that the performance “transcends and transforms.” These endorsements have followed the group from city to city and are a key reason audiences have been quick to secure tickets for upcoming appearances.
By placing qawwali inside a symphonic framework, the project has built a new listening experience for audiences who are familiar with the tradition as well as for those encountering it for the first time.
How the 2026 Headline Night Will Present Qawwali
The Thursday slot typically features the festival’s headline performers. In 2026, the Orchestral Qawwali Project will bring its full symphonic production to the Llangollen Pavilion, a venue that supports the long-form, rising arrangements characteristic of qawwali.
Ranjan said the performance is centered on connection and release, adding that presenting the material with an orchestra “adds a power that’s unlike anything else.” The show will also be the ensemble’s first performance in Wales.
Festival artistic director Dave Danford, when confirming the booking, described the upcoming appearance as “Electrifying and deeply moving.”
Qawwali Amid the Wider 2026 Festival Line-Up
The Llangollen Eisteddfod runs for a full week, and the 2026 lineup includes a mix of global music traditions, choral competitions, and large-scale staged performances.
Karl Jenkins’ One World returns to the program following a cancellation the previous year. The festival will also feature a multicultural-focused Welsh night, a new staging of Peace Child, and an extensive schedule of choir competitions that bring together vocal groups from multiple countries.
Headline acts are spaced throughout the weekend. Emeli Sandé will present an orchestral set of her hits on Friday. Michael Ball leads Saturday night and will appear ahead of the musical theater finals. The event concludes on Sunday with the Choir of the World contest and the Pavarotti Trophy.
A Platform for Global Music and Rising Qawwali Performers
The Llangollen Eisteddfod has steadily broadened its reach, showcasing performers across cultures and traditions, including ensembles that incorporate elements of qawwali into modern formats. The 2024 festival drew attention when the Lucille Armstrong Dance Champions title went to Nachda Punjab Youth Club from India, reflecting the increasingly international nature of the competition.
Organizers expect a strong turnout again in 2026. Choral, dance, and instrumental competitors are already confirmed, representing a wide range of global styles.
Tickets and Access to the 2026 Qawwali Headline Show
Ticket prices for 2026 begin at £45, with additional tiers at £37.50 and £29.50. Season passes are available for those attending both daytime and evening events. General sale opens on 26 November.
Tickets can be purchased online, through the box office, or at the local tourist information center. The Orchestral Qawwali Project’s headline appearance is expected to draw significant demand, particularly among audiences interested in large-scale qawwali performances presented with a full symphonic arrangement.
