Founded in 2007, the Javid Afsari Rad Ensemble showcases a unique blend of Persian, Indian and Arabic musical traditions, as well as influences from Western classical music. Led by Javid Afsari Rad, who plays the Santur and contributes compositions, the ensemble features a diverse lineup of musicians, including a string quartet, a double bassist and Persian percussion.

Since 2019, the ensemble has collaborated with Vahid Taj; a first-rate Persian classical vocalist born in Dezful, Iran, who has toured in Germany and Italy, among other places. His musical training began at an early age under the tutelage of his father, Mohammad Reza Shajarian, a grandmaster of Persian classical music. Taj’s talent has led him to collaborate with a number of renowned musicians both in Iran and internationally. In addition, the Samani Brothers, Behnam and Reza, contribute percussion elements to the ensemble.

Known for their worldwide reputation as percussionists from Iran, the Samani Brothers bring a rich variety of rhythms, sounds and multicultural influences to the ensemble.

Javid Afsari Rad - santur

Vahid Taj - vokal

Harpreet Bansal - fiolin

Sonoko Miriam Welde - fiolin

Tove Margrethe Erikstad - cello

Adrian Myhr - kontrabass

Behnam Samani - perkusjon