In a rare U.S. appearance, Kurdish tanbur legend Ali Akbar Moradi performs a series of sacred and secular pieces that demonstrate the unending beauty of ancient Persia. 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. Moradi’s mastery of the tanbur, or three-stringed lute, and his commanding voice, are unmatched in Iran. He is accompanied by son Kourosh and daughter Faranak – both continue his legacy on the tanbur. Percussionist Pezhham Akhavass adds his masterful tombak drum to the family ensemble.

Born in Guran, Iran, Ali Akbar Moradi began to study tanbur at age seven, eventually mastering the entire Kurdish magham repertoire. His incomparable style has afforded him performances throughout the world. He currently resides in Kurdistan, Iran where he teaches tanbur. In addition to studying tanbur with his father, Kourosh Moradi studied daf with master Sufis of the Yarsan order and tombak with Master Hamid Moghadam. He now lives and teaches in Southern California. Daughter Faranak Moradi teaches tanbur and works as an architect in Iran. Percussionist Pezhham Akhavass studied music at the University in Tehran. He now lives in San Francisco, where he teaches and performs.

When: SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2

Time: 4:00pm - 5:00pm

Where: St. James Presbyterian Church

19414 Ventura Blvd.,Tarzana 91356

Cost: Free

For more info click here.