Fusion of Eastern, Western music at Fajr music festival
In an appealing blend of sounds, the fifth night of the 40th International Fajr Music Festival showcased a unique musical exchange between Iran and the Netherlands, delighting audiences with an innovative performance.
The concert, held at Tehran’s Vahdat Hall, featured a collaborative effort between local and international musicians, highlighting the significance of nurturing female talent in the music industry, IRNA reported.
Taking the stage at 9:30 PM, the concert brought together three internationally acclaimed musicians: Sjahin During, a percussionist from the Netherlands; Bram Stadhouders, a guitarist also from the Netherlands; and Bence Huszar, a cellist from Hungary. They were joined by the all-female Iranian group “Nushe,” led by the talented Niusha Barimani.
The evening kicked off with the three international musicians creating an Eastern ambiance. The electric guitar added atmospheric sounds, while the percussion instruments offered a dynamic range of effects, enriching the musical experience. The cello played a central role, delivering the main melodies in an experimental and engaging manner. This unique combination provided audiences with a refreshing and creative auditory experience.
One of the standout features was the use of an electric cello connected to a pedal board. The performer produced sounds reminiscent of echoing birds in the mountains, creating an inspiring layer to the performance. The rhythmic riffs of the electric guitar infused a European flair, blending seamlessly with the Eastern influences.
After several pieces, During engaged with the audience, sharing, “This is the first time all three of us are performing together.”
He introduced his fellow musicians and expressed his admiration for Persian culture, mentioning that this was his third visit to Iran.
During also reminisced about his first trip six years ago, thanks to an invitation from Barimani, and conveyed hopes for continued collaboration.
Following this interaction, Barimani took the stage with her kamancheh, performing alongside During and the percussionist from Nushe. Her melodic improvisations created a novel fusion, drawing the audience deeper into the experience.
As the concert progressed, other members of Nushe, all talented Iranian women, joined the stage, featuring instruments such as the oud, flute, bass, and piano. Initially, there was a slight lack of cohesion among the group, but as the performance unfolded, their harmony improved, resulting in a richer sound tapestry.
Barimani’s kamancheh performance was clean, melodious, and expressive, resonating with the audience through familiar Iranian tunes. The fusion of these sounds with jazz and blues piano solos, complemented by the Dutch guitarist, crafted a unique atmosphere that captured the essence of both traditional Iranian and contemporary Western music.