Sohrab Pournazeri: The Renowned Composer, Traditional Music Innovator, and Cultural Icon

Educational Journey and Musical Foundations

Formal Education in Music

To formalize his knowledge, Sohrab enrolled at the Soure Music Conservatory, where he studied music theory, composition, and performance techniques. This academic background provided him with a solid foundation in classical Persian music and Western musical principles.

Learning Traditional Instruments

At age 13, he dedicated two years to mastering the Kamancheh under the mentorship of Ardeshir Kamkar, a master musician and member of the renowned Kamkar family. His perseverance and natural talent allowed him to quickly progress, ultimately becoming proficient in playing multiple traditional instruments, including the Tanbur and Setar.

Mentorship and Artistic Development

Throughout his teenage years, Sohrab was mentored by prominent masters, including his father and other traditional musicians. These relationships nurtured his understanding of Persian music’s intricate modal systems, improvisation techniques, and the spiritual essence of performance.

Joining the Shams Group

At just 15 years old, Sohrab joined his father’s ensemble, the Shams Group, as a musician. This experience exposed him to live performances, collaborative improvisations, and the nuances of traditional Kurdish and Persian music. It also provided invaluable practical experience that would shape his future career.

February 1, 2026 | 6:41 pm