34 afghan windows
34 Afghan Windows is the main project cultivated by Joel. As co-founder alongside Elena Yaqubee, they launched the performance about two years ago, and have been delighted to present their project in various European countries, such as Italy, Spain, Germany, Greece and Denmark.
34 Afghan Windows is an experiential journey that captivates each participant by giving them the opportunity to travel within the Afghan world, because unfortunately it is not possible to be there nowadays. The number 34 refers to the 34 provinces in which different cultures, traditions, music, and history are waiting to be discovered. Each window shows a different perspective, and the intention is to give every listener the opportunity to open the windows and discover the reality of this forgotten land. The performance focuses on issues such as: war, violence, terrorism, the indifference of Western countries, women rights, the escaping process of refugees, the journey to Europe and at the same time tries to spread the seeds of hope, dreams and dignity.
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lapis lazuli
Lapis Lazuli is a musical project conceived by Elena Yaqubee, dedicated to exploring and reimagining traditional Afghan folk songs in collaboration with Joel. Unlike 34 Afghan Windows, this project places its entire focus on celebrating the beauty, cultural richness, and musical heritage of Afghanistan.
At a time when music has been brutally silenced and banned under the Taliban regime, Lapis Lazuli seeks to preserve and amplify these precious traditions, giving voice to a culture that continues to endure despite oppression.Together with international artists from the German music scene, the ensemble invites audiences on a journey through Afghanistan’s traditional sounds, weaving together past and present while spreading seeds of hope, resilience, and joy. Through music, Lapis Lazuli pays tribute to a country too often remembered only through the lens of conflict, revealing instead the profound beauty and humanity of its cultural legacy.
About the band
Guitar & Vocals: Elena Yaqubee
E-Guitar & Eletronics: Fabio Joel Tunno
Tabla: Ustad Feraydoon Meyazada
Double bass: Nico Tarek Meinen
Elena Yaqubee is a songwriter, storyteller, actress, and activist. After experiencing the effects of war, injustice, and oppression in her native Afghanistan, in 2019, after a long journey, she arrived on the island of Lesvos aboard a rubber boat, where thousands of refugees were living in inhumane conditions in the remote camp known as Moria Camp. Over the last few years, Elena has devoted herself to music, which has helped her make sense of life and express her feelings through the magical art of vibration.
Ustad Feraydoon Meyazada belongs to a distinguished lineage of classical musicians. Raised in a traditional artistic family, he inherited the rich heritage of Afghan classical music from his grandfather Mia Gul, a respected tabla player, and his paternal grandfather Ustad Rahim Gul, a classical vocalist and disciple of Ustad Qasim Afghan. He began his musical journey in 1993 and formally became a disciple of Ustad Arif Piri Peykar in 1998 under the traditional oral (guru-shishya) system. He further refined his artistry under Ustad Javed and later expanded his training through advanced study with additional masters. Presently, he is receiving advanced training under Savani Talwalkar.
jOel & Co.
... in a dialogue with Martin Gruet on double bass, navigating the open horizons of jazz.
... in a duet with Elena Yaqubee, embarking on a musical journey through 34 Afghan Windows, where the colours and traditions of the East come to life.
... together with Yadamjav Battogtokh on piano and synthesizers, crafting immersive soundscapes that blend experimental jazz, minimalist, psychedelic, and ambient music.
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