ISLAMABAD (MNN); On the occasion of Pakistan Day, the Embassy of Romania in Islamabad announced the official release of the first-ever choral arrangement and score of Pakistan’s national anthem, Qaumi Tarana.
This unique cultural initiative has been carried out by Romania’s renowned National Chamber Choir, Madrigal – Marin Constantin National Chamber Choir, in collaboration with the Romanian Embassy, as a tribute to Pakistan and its people.
The music of the national anthem was originally composed by Ahmed Ghulam Ali Chagla in 1949, while the lyrics were written by celebrated poet Hafeez Jalandhari in 1952. It was first broadcast on Radio Pakistan on August 13, 1954, and later officially adopted as the national anthem. In 1955, it was recorded by eleven prominent singers, marking one of its earliest multi-voice renditions.
Originally composed as an orchestral piece, the anthem reflects a blend of Eastern musical traditions and Western harmonic structures. In this new arrangement, it has been reinterpreted in a polyphonic choral style, dividing the composition into soprano, alto, tenor, and bass parts, while preserving the dignity and integrity of the original melody.
Transforming the anthem into a choral composition presented a significant musical challenge due to its complexity, including nearly 38 tonal variations and its original orchestration for around 21 instruments. The choir carefully adapted these elements into vocal harmonies, ensuring balance and vocal suitability. The anthem’s continuous progression, without repetitive refrains, and the precise pronunciation of Persianized Urdu lyrics added further intricacy to the performance.
After extensive preparation and rehearsals, the Madrigal Choir successfully transformed the orchestral composition into a refined choral masterpiece, highlighting the expressive power of collective voices.
Speaking on the occasion, Romania’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Dan Stoenescu, expressed pride in the project, stating that it represents a historic cultural milestone strengthening ties between the two nations. He emphasized that culture and music play a vital role in fostering friendship, respect, and shared values.
As part of this initiative, the official album and newly developed choral score are being formally presented to Pakistan’s top leadership, including President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, Senate Chairman Yousaf Raza Gillani, and Chief of Army Staff Asim Munir.
Founded in 1963 by renowned conductor Marin Constantin, the Madrigal Choir has become a global symbol of musical excellence and cultural diplomacy, performing thousands of concerts worldwide and earning numerous international accolades.
This choral version of Pakistan’s national anthem is part of the “Diplomacy – The Anthems of the World” program, launched in 2021, aimed at promoting cultural dialogue through music.
Through this artistic tribute, Romania has expressed deep respect for Pakistan’s history, identity, and national values, reaffirming the belief that culture and music can bring nations closer together.
