Zar for Orchestra (2012)

Inspired by Zar and Noban ritual practiced in south of Iran

The piece is inspired by a Zâr song titled ‘Marhaba,’ performed by Mama and Baba, the male and female shamanistic figures who conduct the ritual. After learning about the ceremony and its practice in the South of Iran, and being captivated by its music for months, I was struck by the relevance of a Zâr song in this era of war, violence, and threats. I wanted my music to depict a ritual aimed at banishing evil spirits such as greed, violence, and the lust for power that have plagued our societies and politics, regardless of our origins, and have divided us as human beings. May our unyielding desire for freedom and peace be granted to us by our own wisdom and efforts towards achieving them.