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. Though pleased with the results of the first performance I also seek to better re-create the music of the Radif on violin. The second offering of this project will be on Baroque violin, using the gut strings to bring a closer sound to the kamencheh.
During 2020 I seek to record and release this project - sure to be the first of many re-interpretations of the Persian Bach Project, as you may already know - both of these incredible musical creations; that of Bach and the Radif - call for a lifetime of exploration!
If you wish to pre-order your recording of Persian Bach - to be completed in 2020, or you are interested in donating towards the recording costs - please do follow the link!
Much love from the deepest place in my heart,
Mochakeram,
Julia