Jalil Shahnaz was a master of the tar, a lute-like string instrument pivotal to Persian classical music, whose career spanned several decades and left an indelible imprint on Iran's musical heritage. Born in 1921 in Isfahan, Iran, Shahnaz developed a deep connection to music at an early age, encouraged by his father who was a music enthusiast. He honed his skills at the National Music Conservatory in Tehran under the tutelage of masters such as Morteza Neydavoud and Abolhasan Saba, and quickly distinguished himself as a virtuoso.

With a career that took off in the mid-20th century, Shahnaz became well-known for his emotive performances and his intricate, melodic tar improvisations. His style was characterized by both technical proficiency and a profound expressiveness that resonated with the emotional core of Persian classical music. Throughout his life, he collaborated with many of Iran's most respected musicians and composers, contributing to a period of prolific musical output that has influenced countless musicians. Shahnaz was not only a performer but also an educator, imparting his knowledge and passion for Persian traditional music to new generations. Though he passed away in 2013, his legacy lives on through his numerous recordings, including his recent posthumously remastered works, which continue to capture the essence of Persian musical artistry for posterity.

Genres

Classic Persian Pop

Persian Traditional

Tar

Latest Release

Tar: Chahargah (2023 Remastered Version)

Jalil Shahnaz

Album - 7 Tracks - Released December 4, 2023