Meet Alireza Khodayari | Musician (Composer and Tar player)

We had the good fortune of connecting with Alireza Khodayari and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Alireza, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
Well! Rather than just relying on family pictures of my early childhood as proof of my interest in music and art, I’ve been actively involved in music since I was around ten years old. After four or five years of making music as a teenager, the idea of musicianship became a serious subject in my life. When, as a sixteen-year-old, I created my own ensemble and performed my debut official concert in my hometown, I knew I was on the right track.
After earning a diploma in physics and mathematics, I pursued a Bachelor’s degree in music at Tehran University of Art (TUA). I then continued my studies by working towards a second Bachelor’s degree in Music at Berklee College of Music. Today, I am convinced that a career in music was my true calling, as it is the field where I consistently excel and where my creativity truly thrives.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a musician, specifically a contemporary composer and Tar player. My works revolve around exploring timbres, colors, and languages in music. I’ve created music across various genres, including concert music, contemporary-classical chamber music, Iranian microtonal contemporary music and so on. My journey in music is about seeking the meaning of art and music, understanding that music, in its purest form, is a complete and worthy pursuit. I view music as a science, a blend of mathematical relationships, numbers, sounds, and emotions!

What sets me apart from others is this scientific approach to music, treating music making as a process that intertwines mathematics with emotion. I draw inspiration primarily from music itself, and then from other arts and their aspects. Additionally, my openness to experimental and contemporary music and art distinguishes me from others. I believe that without curiosity and acceptance of modern art—better termed as present art—alongside the many other valuable genres and styles, especially in music, we cannot fully grasp the essence of our present life.

My journey began with a deep love for my instrument the Tar, which sparked my passion for Iranian music. As I immersed myself in learning, my curiosity expanded, pushing me to explore and challenge boundaries in art and music. This openness led me to apply to music universities, and I was accepted into the Tehran University of Art (TUA), where I pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Iranian Music Performance.
Following this, I had the invaluable opportunity to study at Berklee College of Music, where I am currently focused on majoring in composition. Every day at Berklee offers a chance to learn and grow, and I am grateful for the experiences and opportunities that have come my way. Reaching this stage in my career has not been easy. It required dedication, countless hours of practice, and perseverance in the face of challenges and rejections. Through it all, maintaining my independence and courage has been crucial. These qualities have helped me navigate obstacles and continue to advance in my musical journey. However, my commitment to independence and perseverance has been essential in overcoming these obstacles. Embracing rejection as a part of the journey, rather than a setback, has allowed me to continue progressing and evolving as an artist.

I’ve learned that patience is crucial in this journey and rejections are not the end have to happen to lighten up the way of success in our journey. Above all, I’ve realized the power of self-reliance. When we trust in our own abilities and stay true to our passion, we can overcome any obstacle.

I want the world to know how deeply passionate and curious I am about exploring the vast landscape of music. Through my compositions, I strive to reveal different facets of music, encouraging people to see and experience it in new ways. My hope is that they’ll approach various genres and styles of music and art with fresh eyes, recognizing the incredible value each one holds.
From my story, I want others to understand the importance of embracing independence and never fearing rejection. These have been key elements in my journey, and I believe they can help others navigate their own paths with courage and resilience.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Since my first impressions of LA were shaped by two incredible places—the Downtown area and The Huntington Japanese Garden—I would suggest that my friends experience both. They should take the time to enjoy the serene beauty and calm atmosphere of the Japanese Garden, as well as the vibrant, chaotic energy of Downtown LA, which brings a lively pulse to that part of the city.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to dedicate it to myself, my mother and all the musicians who played a constructive role in my career and life!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alirezakhodayariii

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alirezakhodayariii/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@alirezakhodayariii

Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6vGo58L3uMSrKpvVuyymKU?si=_lvsSE7yTzKNhNLQqTHdtQ

https://music.apple.com/us/album/khorasani-single/1760349498

Image Credits
Soha Mahrou
Timothy Mah
Ali Nili