Kayhan Kalhor Concerts

Experience Kayhan Kalhor

Kayhan Kalhor is an internationally acclaimed Iranian kamancheh virtuoso and composer, renowned for his profound contributions to Persian classical music and world music fusion. Born in 1963 in Kermanshah, Iran, Kalhor began studying the kamancheh—a traditional Persian bowed string instrument—at a young age. His masterful technique and emotive playing have earned him recognition as one of the foremost interpreters of Persian musical heritage.

Kalhor’s career spans over four decades, during which he has collaborated with prominent musicians globally, including Indian sitar maestro Ravi Shankar and Kurdish singer Shahram Nazeri. He is a founding member of the influential ensemble “Masters of Persian Music,” which showcases traditional Persian compositions with contemporary interpretations. His style blends intricate modal improvisations (dastgah) with deep emotional expression, bridging classical Persian motifs and innovative world music elements.

Among his notable accomplishments, Kalhor has released critically acclaimed albums such as "Silent City" (with Brooklyn Rider) and "Scattering Stars Like Dust." He was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Traditional World Music Album in 2011 for “Live at Carnegie Hall.