Sahba Motallebi | photo courtesy of the artist

Born in Iran and musically educated in Russia and Turkey, Sahba Motallebi has become a world-renowned ambassador for Persian music over the last two and a half decades. Eight CDs and several awards later, the tar and setar player will bring her lute-like stringed instruments to West Philly’s Crossroads Music on October 23rd.

The traditional music that Motallebi plays is hypnotic in its depth and fascinating in its malleability. The energy can be calming, celebratory or somber as she weaves in and out of memorable melodies and more meditative, droning passages. Her compositions highlight the modern day significance of a rich, classical culture, aspects of which can be traced even to certain contemporary American musicians.

Tickets and information for the concert can be found here. Sahba will give a free performance for children and their families beforehand – information for that can be found here.