Carnegie Hall

Iranian folk music is a rich and diverse tradition, deeply rooted in the country’s history, culture, and geography. Each region of Iran has its own unique musical style, instruments, and vocal techniques, reflecting the way of life and language of its people. Two of the regions we will explore together include Khorasan Province (Northeastern Iran) and Kurdistan (Western Iran). These songs often carry simple yet powerful emotions; tell tales of love, hardship, nature, and history; and reflect the deep connection between the land and its people.

Mehrnam was born and raised in the city of Golpayegan in Western Iran. At 11, she discovered her passion for music through the tombak, a traditional goblet drum. Encouraged by her family, she pursued professional training, laying the foundation for her musical journey. Over the years, she was deeply influenced by Sima Bina, a renowned Iranian traditional musician, composer, researcher, and teacher, who traveled across the country, collecting and recording songs that had been hidden for years due to music bans by the government. Inspired by these songs and traditions, Mehrnam continues to shape the future of Persian music—honoring the diverse peoples and languages of modernday Iran while staying connected to the traditional, classical, and folk music of Persian-speaking culture. Her work proves that heritage and experimentation can coexist in powerful ways. These regional styles incorporate unique instruments, rhythms, and influences. She is the founder of the Mehrnam Rastegari Traditional Persian Band in New York City and has also launched Chogan, a Middle Eastern rock band that showcases her original music alongside reimagined folk songs.