Welcome to Saaz.co.uk, your go-to destination for exploring the vibrant and rich culture of Bradford! As the proud host of Bradford City of Culture 2025, our site offers you the latest insights, events, and celebrations that make this city stand out as a cultural hub. Whether you're looking for Bradford City of Culture events, or just want to dive into the Bradford culture, you’ve come to the right place!

Saaz is an online community centred around a shared love for music emanating from East Asia. East Asia has a rich musical history with many genres and styles of music.  Classical, Qawali, Gheet, Naat and Bollywood music have a place in the heart of many Brits. However, a local, diverse, accessible community to unite artists and fans alike has not been created until now. Saaz aims to provide this community; which we hope will bloom into a home for all things related to East Asian music

Qawaali music and the magic of live performance. They didn’t have formal training or a wide range of instruments—just pure passion and a dream. Week after week, they gathered for practice at a local academy, a space brought to life by Saleem Shah. Those sessions became more than rehearsals; they were the foundation of a vibrant community.
As time passed, the academy (dera) evolved into a cultural hub, attracting legendary artists from India and Pakistan. It wasn’t just a venue—it was a sanctuary for music and tradition. Icons like Sher Ali & Mehr Ali Qawaals and the incomparable Rahat Fateh Ali Khan graced its halls, sharing their art and wisdom. The atmosphere was electric, so rich and soulful that many began to call it the “Lahore of the UK.” What started as a humble gathering of friends grew into a legacy—a living celebration of heritage, rhythm, and unity.

Word soon spread about the soulful live music echoing through the academy on Saturday nights. People came eager to listen, and many couldn’t resist joining in—singing their hearts out or playing the harmonium alongside the performers. It was an open door for everyone, a space where passion mattered more than perfection. The academy became a gathering place for music lovers, where every voice was welcomed and every note added to the magic.

  The journey wasn’t without challenges. Over the past decade, two major shifts changed everything—the rise of YouTube and social media, and the struggle to maintain steady operational income. These factors led the original dera to fall into disrepair. Local enthusiasts made heartfelt attempts to revive the spirit through smaller groups, but most couldn’t endure.
Today, the focus is firmly forward. We’re fortunate to have a permanent home in Bradford, where practice sessions are thriving once again. The passion that started it all still beats strong—fuelled by community, tradition, and the love of Qawaali

Bridging the Knowledge Gap in Asian Music

Preserving and sharing the rich traditions of Asian Music often hits a snag: talented teachers are scarce. Many gifted performers either struggle to teach effectively or simply choose not to pass on their profound knowledge.

We created this platform to solve that, uniting a dedicated community. While technology and online tools have made learning easier, we believe the face-to-face experience is crucial for mastering these arts.

Use this site to connect with a master for deeply rewarding lessons, or find professional musicians ready to elevate your next special event.

Announcing upcoming events

If you have a musical / family entertainment event that you would like us to share on the website , please email us and we will update it for you.

Are your customers raving about you on social media? Share their great stories to help turn potential customers into loyal ones.

Share the big news

Please check  back regularly for updated information on up coming events locally.

Bradford City of Culture Events in 2026
While the Bradford City of Culture 2025 celebrations were unforgettable, Bradford doesn’t stop there! The Bradford City of Culture events continue to evolve, offering both residents and visitors plenty of exciting opportunities to explore local arts, music, and heritage. From community-driven festivals to global art exhibits, Bradford city culture remains at the heart of these engaging events throughout 2026.

Cultural Societies: Hindu and Islamic in Bradford
Bradford’s cultural diversity is evident through local organizations like the Hindu Cultural Society Bradford and the Islamic Cultural & Educational Association Bradford. These societies continue to bring people together, organizing events that focus on cultural exchange, religious understanding, and artistic expression. They play an essential role in celebrating Bradford’s inclusive spirit in 2026.

Bradford 2025: Culture Fusion Continues
The Culture Fusion Bradford initiative, which began as part of the Bradford City of Culture 2025, continues to be a vibrant part of the city's events in 2026. It celebrates the city’s diverse communities, blending various cultural traditions through music, dance, food, and more. This unique event invites you to experience Bradford’s cultural fusion, highlighting how the city unites different cultural backgrounds to create something truly special.

The Legacy of Bradford City of Culture 2025
Though Bradford City of Culture 2025 may have officially passed, the legacy of the year-long celebrations remains in full force. Bradford’s culture events continue to celebrate its multicultural identity, with something for everyone. Whether you’re enjoying a local festival, attending an art exhibit, or participating in educational programs, Bradford year of culture remains alive and well in 2026.