Persian and Kurdish Traditional Music Concert June 2, 2012

Experience the rich and ancient music of Kurdistan of Iran featuring one of Iran's most revered master musicians, Aliakbar Moradi. This concert explores the sacred songs of Kurdistan, with the talented music ensemble including his son Kourosh Moradi, percussive virtuoso Pezhham Akhavass, Mehdi Bagheri on Kamancheh and the talented female vocalist Ghazaleh Fayli.

The instrument Tanbur, a kind of long necked lute of Persia that originates from Kurdistan known to be a sacred instrument of the Sufis. This three stringed instrument is thought to be one of the oldest in the world, having a documented 5000 year old history. His program features meditative improvisations based on the repertoire of the Yarsan people, the followers of a mystical faith associated with Sufism, who live in western Iran. Moradi's mastery of the tanbur and his commanding vocals, make him one of the leading masters of traditional Persian music in the world today.

The region of Kermanshahan within the province of Kurdistan has a very distinct and ancient culture. Music is held in high esteem in this territory and the depth and diversity of the music make this region one of the most important within the musicology of Iran. Certain unique qualities of the tanbur music of Kermanshahan, such as those found in the intervals, rhythms, and melodic cycles, lend support to the view that this music bears close resemblance to the ancient music of Iran. Experience the deeply mystical, spiritual and traditional music of Iran and the region of Kurdistan. Meditative improvisation blends with centuries-old compositions in this collection of pre-Islamic Yarsan religious music, thought to be one of the most ancient, deep-rooted musical traditions in the world. The tanbur has always been considered a sacred instrument associated with the Kurdish Sufi music of Western Iran. Blended together with the traditional Persian vocals, this concert will be a meditative journey through an ancient sound.

Official Website: http://www.eventbrite.com/event/2790032061