Vahid Bassam
is a musician, luthier, instructor, and expert on the tar and the setar (Persian musical instruments) with more than 40 years of experience. He has become best known for his works on the performing style of Mirza Hossein Qoli which he has implemented both in his own performances as well as in his teachings. He is currently the only musician to teach and play Mirza Hossein-Qoli’s style using a 5-string Tar.
Teaching
Teachings are based on the authentic practices inherited from the ancient Persian traditions such as the oral transmission music. The contents of these teachings include various Persian repertoires (also known as Radif) as compiled by Mirza Abdollah, Mirza Hossein-Qoli, and Abdollah Davami.
Performances & Talks
Both performances and talks are focused around the traditional Shīveh (the performing style) of playing Tar and Setar. The lectures discuss the aesthetic principles of Shīveh and Radif, often followed by a performance to demonstrate the Shīveh of 19th century Tar players.
luthier
The instruments (including Tar, Setar, and Kamancheh) are made based on the techniques used in the traditional Persian lutherie and are compatible with the Shīveh of 19th century Persian musicians.
