“Beyond category” was a phrase used by the great American composer Duke Ellington to describe music that transcends labels—music without ego, music in its most honest form. 

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We, the Beyond Category Collective, seek to extend this idea into an artistic philosophy rooted in curiosity, acceptance, and mutual understanding. We are a diverse group of musicians, shaped by unique backgrounds and traditions yet united by a passion for collaboration, experimentation, and learning. From Cape Town to Mumbai, Vienna to New York, we each bring a unique story and perspective, believing that every joyful act of creation brings about social consciousness. We share our music and ideas through performance, education, and social engagement. We are therefore not only a band, but a community.

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Our first project, “Kyun hum padein hain? / Why are we stuck in the dark?”, which brings together Scottish folk music, the Hindustani vocal tradition, Qawwali, Western classical music and jazz, with a modern production aesthetic, explores social consciousness through the lens of an individual trying to grapple with the world. We invite you to listen and engage, and to become part of the Beyond Category community. Thank you so much for your time and consideration, and for your love.