Bach + Persian Radif
This ongoing project has been a long term development and relationship with both the music of Bach and of the Persian tradition. Initially evolving as a musical concept at Banff in 2018 as Solitude Project. I began exploring the possibilities of bringing together the works of unaccompanied Bach violin repertoire along with stylistic and improvisatory explorations in the Persian style. This included experimentation of the use of quarter tones in the Bach score, as performed at Banff Centre for Creative Arts.
Whilst this experimentation yielded some interesting and valuable creations I felt frustrated I had no deep understanding of the Persian musical systems, for which I have a deep respect. Being inspired to learn in more depth than recordings could allow, I began to plan a study trip to Iran.
July 2019 saw me travel to Iran to undertake intensive lessons with kamencheh player Master Shervin Mohajer, on recommendation from Master Kayhan Kalhor. This was the beginning of my learning into the Radif system, in which I began with Dastgãh-e Šhur.
I was overwhelmed with the culture and openheartedness of the Iranian people, land and place. This was truly one of the most incredible experiences of my life, which included visits to Tehran, Esfahan and Shiraz.
I offered the first iteration of this project in public recital October 2019; Bach + Persian Radif, Partita II with Dastgãh-e Šhur. This long term project will be explored further on Baroque violin, using the gut strings to bring a closer sound to the kamencheh.