National Festival of Making is collaborating with internationally recognised Nasheed artist Hussnain Hanif to create a Blackburn-based Nasheed Choir, made up of children from Roe Lee Park Primary School and St Mary’s & St Joseph’s R C Primary School.

Over the course of 12 sessions, Hussnain will work with students to develop a new choir performance that will be presented at the National Festival of Making on 5 & 6 July 2025 in Blackburn town centre.

Mohammed Hussnain Hanif, known locally as Hussnain Hanif, is a celebrated Nasheed artist who has worked with over 80 schools nationwide. His practice blends Western and Islamic musical traditions to create a powerful and beautiful sound. Driven by the belief that music unites, heals, and elevates, Hussnain champions its power to foster peace, tolerance, and shared humanity.

A Nasheed is a Westernised form of mid’ha (praise), a 1,400-year-old tradition rooted in the Sufi practices of Islam. These poetic songs of love, harmony, and peace are a form of individual devotion and rich cultural expression passed down through generations. 

We’ll be sharing updates as the choir learns new vocal techniques and harmonies, all through the beautiful lens of this sacred tradition, ahead of performing at the 2025 National Festival of Making.