The Story of Master

He often described singing (āvāz) as a way of “reciting the soul of Persian poetry.” His performances frequently featured poems by Hafez, Rumi, Saadi, Attar, and Khayyam, chosen carefully to reflect social, emotional, and mystical themes. He paid extraordinary attention to diction (talaffoz), tone color, and phrasing, ensuring that each word carried emotional and linguistic weight. He was known for his deep understanding of the Radif, the structured system of Persian classical music — a demanding, improvisational art form.

Throughout his six-decade career, Shajarian worked with finest musicians and ensembles, creating a vast collection of landmark recordings. These collaborations blended traditional Persian music with contemporary themes — each project becoming a reflection of cultural and emotional landscape. Shajarian’s reputation extended far beyond borders. He performed in Europe, North America, Japan, and the Middle East, often to sold-out audiences.

October 6, 2025 | 4:33 pm