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Mahoor Institute, Iran
Persian Classical Music

In this recording Alizadeh performs his definitive style on setar, combining superior technique with attention to mood and coloring.

"Torkaman" has been inspired by the Torkaman people and their land; it portrays the human states that arise in the expression of their pains and in their love", says Alizadeh. At the time of its first release in 1986, "Torkaman" 's innovative style was very controversial. Currently, "Torkaman" is already considered to be a classic. Alizadeh's mastery has proved time and again to be eye opening in the development of music in Iran.


The instrument

Setar (Persian: three tar string) is an Iranian musical instrument. It is a member of the lute family. Two and a half centuries ago, a fourth string was added to the setar, which has 25 - 27 moveable frets. It originated in Persia around the time of the spread of Islam and is a direct descendant of the larger and louder Tanbur. The setar is significantly different from the Indian sitar, with which it is sometimes confused due to the similarity of their names.