Siddique Ahmed

Siddique Ahmed is a multi-instrumentalist, composer, and music producer. He is the founding member of Afghanistan’s first rock band, Kabul Dreams, and has represented Afghanistan in multiple international festivals, including SxSW. As a music producer, he has arranged and produced music for composers like Kabir Howaida and Afghan legendary singer Ustad Mahwash, along with many emerging artists. 

After moving to the U.S., Siddique reconnected with his roots and took up the Rubab, an instrument he always felt a deep connection with. He brings melodies from different regions of Afghanistan to life on the Rubab, infusing them with his own interpretation while preserving their traditional essence. 

Siddique is also an active collaborator with the Afghanistan Freeharmonic Orchestra (AFO), a global collective of Afghan and international musicians dedicated to preserving Afghan musical heritage and advocating for freedom through music. Through virtual collaborations, he contributes his expertise in both traditional and contemporary Afghan music, using the Rubab to revive Afghan melodies while incorporating global influences. His work with AFO supports its mission to give voice to Afghan musicians silenced by conflict and repression, uniting displaced artists through music as a form of resistance and resilience.