FROM SEVILLE TO ISFAHAN

The 15th and 16th Century have been described as the golden age of Spanish music, but they were also without a doubt the golden age of Persian and central Asian music.

This concert’s journey from Spain to Iran brings into dialogue the music of the Spanish Renaissance with Persian / Ottoman masterpieces. Rare musical gems along this ancient trade route are taken from manuscripts unearthed in monasteries and palace libraries such as Topkapi in Istanbul.

MB1800 is proud to feature a special collaboration with Persian setar master Kiya Tabassian and his renown Constantinople ensemble, with with Fahmi Alqhai, one of the great virtuosos of the viola da gamba, and his Accademia del Piacere, the leading ensemble of early Spanish music. Together they embark on a musical tour through Iberia, Persia, and Central Asia, unearthing rarely heard music notable for its sumptuous color and exceptionally rich beauty.

Also featuring: Didem Basar, kanun; Johanna Rose, viola da gamba; Hamin Honari, tombak, daf Rami Alqhai, viola da gamba; Patrick Graham, percussion.