Shanbehzadeh Trio Live in Los Angeles

“a mesmerizing set of what may be called the hidden Afro-Persian tradition…transfixing” - NPR

The Shanbehzadeh Trio, with its driving rhythms, trance-inducing songs, and hip-swinging dances, offers a rare opportunity to experience the fascinating music and dance of the southern Iranian province of Bushehr in the Persian Gulf. A cultural crossroads for centuries, Bushehr has been influenced by Sufi, Persian, Arab, African and Indian traditions. The ensemble is led by Saied Shanbehzadeh, who traces his ancestry to Zanzibar in East Africa, and includes his son Naghib Shanbehzadeh and Habib Mefhta-busheri. Thier lluring instruments include neyanban (double-reed bagpipe), neydjofti (double flute), and boogh (goat's horn). Shanbehzadeh was a highlight at globalFEST in 2009.

The main instruments include the Neyanban (Iranian bagpipe), Neyjoti (double flute), Dammam (dual faced percussion), Zarbetempo (percussion), traditional flute, Senj (local type of cymbals) and Boogh (horns).

Saeid Shanbehzadeh: Neyanbânn, Neydjofti, Traditional Dances
Naghib Shanbehzadeh: Tombak, Zarbetempo
Habib Meftah Boushehri: Dammâm, Zarbetempo, Flute