Ali Akbar Moradi

Ali Akbar Moradi is a living legend. He plays the Kurdish lute called the tanbur, an ancient instrument that is likely the ancestor of most long-necked, plucked stringed instruments. The tanbur has always been considered a sacred instrument associated primarily with the Kurdish Sufi music of Western Iran. It is believed that its repertoire is based on ancient Persian music. Moradi has a unique style that sets him apart from other tanbur players. He's also a leading composer and teacher of the sacred Kurdish music of Iran. Moradi has won many awards including two honorary diplomas at major music festivals in Iran. Moradi has performed as a soloist and with ensembles in festivals throughout the world.