Azad Mirzapour is a critically acclaimed Iranian–Kurdish composer, tar and setar virtuoso, ensemble director, and producer. His distinctive artistic vision bridges Persian classical traditions, the rich Kurdish repertory, and cross-cultural contemporary projects. For over two decades, he has been a prominent figure on the international music scene, performing, composing, and leading ensembles across Europe, North America, Asia, and Australia.
Career and Collaborations
Mirzapour’s career is marked by high-profile international recitals and extensive collaborations with leading artists. He has performed at prestigious venues worldwide, including the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles, and frequently collaborates with institutions like the Farhang Foundation.
Between 2008 and 2010, Mirzapour was a central figure in the Mastan Ensemble, appearing as a featured soloist in more than 60 international concerts. During this period, he served as a lead instrumentalist and recording supervisor on three of the ensemble’s audio/video releases.
A key collaborator has been the esteemed Iranian vocalist Homayoun Shajarian, with whom Mirzapour has worked on major projects, including:
• Simorgh
• Khodaavandan Asrar
• Iran Man
• Be Rang-e Seda
He has also participated in significant cross-cultural projects with artists such as Charbel Rouhana and Mohammad Motamedi, appearing at international events like the Marseille Babelmed festival and collaborating with France Musique.
Ensemble Direction
Since approximately 2012, Mirzapour has founded and directed the Hezarâvâz / Hezaravaz Ensemble. He serves as the ensemble’s composer, arranger, conductor, and principal instrumentalist. Notable appearances for the Hezarâvâz Ensemble include:
• Werkstatt der Kulturen (Berlin, 2012 & 2014)
• Cosmopolite (Oslo, 2014 & 2025)
• Gasteig Munich (2017, 2018, 2019)
• Major concerts in Stockholm and Gothenburg (2024–2025)
Selected Compositions and Recordings
Mirzapour’s recorded output showcases his versatility and profound connection to Persian and Kurdish music. Selected tracks and compositions include:
• “Mahanegar” (with Mahdiyeh Mohammadkhani)
• “Shabshodegan” (with Vahid Taj)
• “Moon & Mirror” (with Mahdiyeh Mohammadkhani)
Forthcoming Projects
Azad Mirzapour continues to maintain active international collaborations, festival programming, and ensemble tours. He is currently developing new recordings, notably a forthcoming Kurdish album that will feature Adnan Karim and artists from Iran, Norway, and Sweden.
Dedicated to music education, Mirzapour is also producing a program of educational releases, including single tracks, method books, instructional videos, and audio lessons.