Today we’d like to introduce you to Milad Yousufi.
Milad, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I began my musical journey in Afghanistan during a time when music was forbidden under the Taliban. As a child, I made a “paper piano” and dreamed of becoming a musician. That dream eventually led me to study piano at the Afghanistan National Institute of Music and later in Denmark and New York, where I earned degrees in piano performance and composition.
Today, I work as a composer, pianist, conductor, and educator, creating music that brings together my Afghan heritage with classical and contemporary influences. My work has been featured in film, documentary, and concert music, and I’m honored to be an Emmy Award–winning composer. Through my music, I hope to tell stories of resilience, identity, and humanity, while creating opportunities for Afghan voices to be heard.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has definitely not been a smooth road. Growing up in Afghanistan when music was forbidden made pursuing music incredibly difficult, and I had to find creative ways to keep that dream alive. Moving to different countries, adapting to new cultures, and building a career as an artist came with many challenges and uncertainties. There were also financial and professional obstacles along the way. But each challenge strengthened my determination and taught me to keep moving forward. Those experiences have ultimately shaped my voice as an artist and the kind of stories I want my music to tell.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a composer, pianist, conductor, and educator whose work bridges classical music with Afghan musical traditions and contemporary influences. I specialize in composition and arranging for film, documentaries, orchestras, ensembles, and interdisciplinary projects.
I’m particularly known for using music to tell stories of identity, resilience, displacement, and hope. I’m most proud of being able to transform personal and cultural experiences into music that connects with people beyond cultural and linguistic boundaries. Being an Emmy Award–winning composer is an honor, but what sets me apart most is the perspective I bring to my work—the combination of my Afghan heritage, classical training, and a deeply personal approach to storytelling through music.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Growing up, I was quiet, sensitive, and very curious. I was drawn to art, music, books, and nature, and I often spent time creating things on my own. Even when music was not accessible to me, I found ways to express myself through drawing and building my own “paper piano.” I was always fascinated by sound, creativity, and storytelling, and I think that early sense of curiosity and imagination continues to shape who I am as an artist today.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.miladyousufi.com
- Instagram: @miladyousufi
- Facebook: Milad Yousufi
- LinkedIn: Milad Yousufi
- Youtube: Milad Yousufi
- Soundcloud: Milad Yousufi
