Iranian Classical Music

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BBC Radio 3 is a radio channel that started transmitting on the 30th September 1967. It replaced Third Programme.

BBC Radio 3

Radio 3

Music: Classical

Music: World: Middle East & Africa

Exploring the rich traditions of Persian classical music and what makes it classical.

Over the course of three episodes, we explore the rich traditions of Persian classical music and what makes it classical.

Over the course of three episodes, we explore the rich traditions of Persian classical music and what makes it classical. With roots in the urban and courtly traditions, we hear works of the long pre-Islamic period and the Greek, Jewish and Christian musical theories and practices behind them. We explore how the arrival of Islam and the influence of neighbouring Arab musicians brought new modes, scales and rhythms to the music. And as a new genre of composed pieces arrived in the 20th century, we hear the works that have shaped Persian classical music over the last century. These traditions cross borders, and we hear how Persian classical music is performed in Afghanistan, India and Central Asia.

Iranian Classical Music: The Origins of Persian Classical Music

The Origins of Persian Classical Music

BBC Radio 3 - Iranian Classical Music, The Origins of Persian Classical Music

Iranian singer and educator Mahsa Vahdat traces the history of Persian classical music, from its origins more than 1,500 years ago through to the Maqam and Radif systems.

Iranian singer and educator Mahsa Vahdat begins her three part series on Iranian - or Persian - classical music. In this episode she explores the origins of the music, from the Persian empire more than 1,500 years ago, to the Maqam system that dominated for centuries, before giving way in the 19th century to the Radif system that defines Iranian or Persian classical music today.

Live music and the arts: broadcasts more live music than any other radio network. Classical music is its core. Genres include world and new music, jazz, speech and drama.

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