The Persian Classical Music Co

About

Persian classical music dates back to the fifth century B.C. The Achamanide empire used music in prayer, royal festivities, national ceremonies, and war. The music is rich in structure, comprising melodic tones combined with a bounty of colorful rhythms. At the time of the Sassanid dynasty (100-630 A.D.), the music reaches its culmination with the Royal ensemble performing songs by Barbod and Nakisa (the two renown Iranian musicians) in a 100 piece orchestra. In the next millennium or so, the music comes under pressure from the fanatics in the religious circles and goes underground. During this long period, the theoretical aspects of the Iranian music continues flourishing while the practical part is virtually nonexistent. It is only in modern era in which the Persian music revives in its full capacity. The Center for Persian Classical Music (CPCM) is a training institution for the Iranian traditional and folk music. In addition to teaching music, the Center addresses a wide spectrum of the norms, traditions, customs, and values of the Iranian culture. By teaching Sufism and Irfan, the two linchpins of the Iranian thought and philosophy, the Center provides the opportunities for the participants to develop the mental capabilities necessary for coping with the stresses imposed by the anomalies of the technological age. CPCM also devotes its activities to performing concerts, publishing books, producing musical audios and videos, newsletters, art exhibitions, and Persian handicrafts.