Eishan Ensemble: Project Masnavi

Te Ahurei Toi o Tāmaki | Auckland Arts Festival presents acclaimed Persian jazz band Eishan Ensemble. Performing their latest album of stunning layered soundscapes and sophisticated compositions, live, for the first time in Aotearoa.

Inspired by the lyrical poetry of Rumi’s epic masterpiece Masnavi, one of the most precious books in Persian literature, Eishan Ensemble blends Persian Classical with Western Jazz and improvisation in a rich fusion of styles Songlines magazine has called “a flawless combination.”

Showcasing the ambitious compositions of bandleader, composer and tar player, Iranian-born Hamed Sadeghi, alongside saxophonist Michael Avgenicos, bassist Maximillian Alduca, accordion player Luke Sweeting, and drummer Alex Inman-Hislop, Project Masnavi defies neat labels to deliver a sublimely powerful musical experience.

★★★★ “Gorgeously contemplative.” — Songlines UK

“Alluring... an immersive experience.” — Everything is Noise