Nowruz: Welcoming the Arrival of Spring
The famous poet Rumi wrote, “Respond to every call that excites your spirit.” And certainly no season stirs the soul more than spring. March 21 marks the first day of spring, but for millions of people around the world it’s also the start of Nowruz, the Iranian New Year. Nowruz, which means “new day” in Persian, has been celebrated for more than 3,000 years. Even Google has celebrated this holiday of rebirth and renewal with a special doodle depicting spring flowers and nature.
This year, Pacific Symphony in collaboration with the Farhang Foundation, presents an intriguing concert conducted by Carl St.Clair on March 26 at 8 p.m. The program will feature classical works as well as traditional Iranian music.
The evening’s special guest artist will be Alireza Ghorbani, who is part of the new generation of Iranian singers of classical Persian music. Iran’s media consider Ghorbani to be one of the most important singers in the country: “Alireza Ghorbani is a professional and humble singer who, along with all of these traits, perseveres with exemplary work. He has collaborated with many leading composers. His eternal learning spirit has allowed him to step up calmly and confidently in leading the way forward for Iranian music.”
Anoosheh Oskouian, who serves as a trustee of the Farhang Foundation and as a board member of Pacific Symphony, commented, “I am so pleased that the Farhang Foundation will again partner with Pacific Symphony to celebrate Nowruz, which marks the arrival of spring and rebirth of nature.” She continued, “It has been my dream to connect East and West musically with a special Nowruz concert onstage.”
Carl St.Clair said, “Pacific Symphony values its position as a cultural resource and leader and we embrace Orange County’s rich and diverse communities through contextual programming. This is a way to connect on a more personal level and also reflects my own wish to enrich lives through the beauty and power of music.”
Are you joining us? Let us know in the comments below! To learn more about the show and get tickets, please click here.