Edinburgh has recently hosted the First Annual Festival of Middle Eastern Spirituality and Peace, featuring a number of contributions from the MCB on behalf of Britain's vibrant Muslim community. This important week of cultural exchange and enrichment culminated in the Middle Eastern One World Peace and Justice Concert featuring, amongst others, Hassen Rasool.

The stunning St Mary's Episcopal Cathedral was the setting for this thoroughly enjoyable and inspiring evening. The impressive line-up featured artists and performers tracing their origins from many different parts of the world who through the languages of song, chant and play sought to communicate a message of hope and peace into our world.

Eloquently introduced by the Islamic Society of Britain's Ajmal Masroor, Hassen Rasool, a young softly-spoken South African, captivated the audience with a most memorable recitation from the Holy Qur'an. His performance, entitled 'The Beauty of Islam' also included Nasheeds (Islamic songs) from his forthcoming debut album and a rendition of the Adhan (call to prayer) which echoed throughout the magnificent cathedral.

Hassen is currently resident in Britain and is performing at a number of regional and national events. He is a welcome addition to the growing body of talent that has the ability to communicate the message of Islam to our fellow country-folk through the universal language of music. It is precisely such creative talent – which we know exists within the British Muslim community – which we are, with your help, identifying and highlighting on the national stage.

And to cap it all, the MCB have been invited to work with the Festival organisers to plan next year's programme so if there are any budding artists who would like to perform please do drop us a line.