Dela Ensemble's Spellbinding Exploration of Iranian Classical Music

Dela Ensemble's Spellbinding Exploration of Iranian Classical Music

On 18 August, the audience at Local Edition was treated to a mesmerising journey through the rich traditions of Iranian classical music, as four members of the Dela Ensemble delivered an evocative improvisational set.

With Mehdi Mansouri and Aran Dekar on setar, Ramin Etemadzadeh lending his soulful vocals (Awvaz), and Amirsalar Makhzani weaving intricate rhythms on tonbak and udu, the performance was a captivating blend of structured artistry and spontaneous expression.

Exploring the Dastgah system, the ensemble seamlessly transitioned between unmetered Saz-o-Awaz passages and beautifully rendered Tasnif (Persian ballads). The evening unfolded organically, with each musician responding intuitively to the moment, creating an atmosphere of deep connection between performer and audience.

The result was an immersive experience that transported listeners beyond the present, evoking both nostalgia and discovery. Dela Ensemble’s ability to balance tradition with improvisation was a testament to their mastery and deep understanding of Persian musical heritage.