Moonchild: The Life and Music of Yusuf Salim

Moonchild follows jazz pianist, composer, and mentor Yusuf Salim, from his early years playing on Baltimore’s famed Pennsylvania Avenue to his celebrated contributions to the emerging jazz and Muslim communities in his adopted hometown of Durham, North Carolina. Salim’s deep faith and embrace of human connection transformed the world around him, even through lifelong battles with personal demons. During his sixty-year musical journey, Brother Yusuf inspired and propelled the careers of award-winning musicians and vocalists with his Black Atlantic cool and mastery of the songbook. His life and musical contributions offer timeless lessons of hope, redemption, and empowerment within Black American, Muslim, and jazz histories. Directed by Kenny Dalsheimer, Rafael Samanez. Join in for a screening of the film followed by a Q&A with the filmmakers.

Last updated October 28, 2026