The Sound of Tār

“The Sound of Tār” is a reflective collection of Persian classical compositions centered around the tār and setār—two plucked instruments at the heart of Iranian musical heritage. This playlist features a range of solo performances, improvisations, and traditional dastgahs (modal systems), capturing generations of masters like Jalil Shahnaz, Darvish Khan, and Mohammad Reza Lotfi alongside more contemporary voices such as Hossein Alizadeh and Ali Ghamsari. The result is a textured survey of styles—from intricate chaharmezrabs to meditative avaz.

Listeners will move through the tonal landscapes of dastgahs like Homayun, Abuatā, Shur, and Mahur, with moments of lively rhythm, introspective melody, and nuanced ornamentation. Whether it's the minimal clarity of solo setār or the intensity of group improvisation, this playlist highlights how the tār and setār shape the emotional and expressive depth of Persian traditional music.