Iran

Anthology Of World Music (Series) | Format: Audio CD

Product Details

• Audio CD (February 10, 1998)
• Number of Discs: 2
• Label: Rounder Select
• ASIN: B0000003AP
• Also Available in: Audio Cassette  |  MP3 Download
• Average Customer Review: 4.5 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #608,928 in Music (See Top 100 in Music)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

5.0 out of 5 stars Classic and Folk-Loric Heritage of Persia, June 5, 2008

By 

Zekeriyah (Chicago, IL) - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE)   

This review is from: Iran (Audio CD)

Part of the 'Anthology of World Music' series, this magnificent two-CD set provides an ethnographic survey of Iran's musical heritage. Exploring both classical and folk traditions, the CD showcases instruments such as the dombak, santur (hammered dulcimer), ney (flute), kemanche (spiked fiddle) and sehtar (sitar), all in the hands of virtuoso masters from across the country. Likewise, the mystical Farsi poetry of Sufi mystics like Saadi and Araqi (of which the Persians are quite rightly proud of) is also displayed. As if this weren't enough, the CD comes with liner notes giving an overview of the complex modes and theories behind Persian music (which, incidentally, is all the more reason to buy a physical copy of the CD). For those not familiar with Persian classical music, there is a whole series of modes called dastgah (similar to the Arabic maqamat), each associated with a particular mood or emotion. Those familiar with musical theory should be able to pick up on this, but anyone can enjoy the beauty of Persian classical music even without this knowledge. In an age when the media bombards people with a fear of all things Iranian and Muslim, this CD provides information to the contrary - of the rich, complex and beautiful heritage of Persian culture, an unbroken civilization that spans thousands of years all the way back to Cyrus the Great! I strongly recommend this as an introduction to the majestic art of Iran, something which deserves wider appreciation. Trust me, you will enjoy this CD.

3 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Great introduction to traditional Persian music., November 9, 1999

By 

Jonathan Bradley (Missoula Montana) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Iran (Audio CD)

This compilation introduces the listener to many of the instruments, styles, and sounds of Persian music. Strings, woodwinds, percussion and vocals are all represented. The accompanying booklet is also very informative for those interested in the history and the theory of the music. This CD provides a glimpse into some of the world's most beautiful traditional music.