Podcast Summary: Speaking Soundly – Episode Featuring Kayhan Kalhor

Title: Kayhan Kalhor
Host: Artful Narratives Media
Host's Role: MET Opera Principal Trumpet, David Kraus
Release Date: April 1, 2025
Duration: Approximately 18 minutes

1. Introduction to Kayhan Kalhor

The episode opens with David Kraus introducing Kayhan Kalhor, highlighting his mastery of multiple instruments, including the Comanche—the ancient Persian predecessor of the violin. Kraus paints a vivid picture of Kalhor’s journey from fleeing Iran during the revolution to achieving global acclaim through his musical talents.

David Kraus [01:05]: "Kayhan Kalhor is a multi-talented virtuoso of many instruments, including the Comancha, the ancient Persian predecessor of the violin, which he's helped to popularize through his solo performances and collaborations."

2. Early Life and Introduction to Music

Kalhor begins by reflecting on his childhood during the turbulent times in Iran. Forced to flee the country at a young age, he shares how music became his sanctuary and a means to connect with the world beyond his immediate circumstances.

Kayhan Kalhor [01:05]: "One day everything changes, you know, and your life is not the same anymore for your family, for anyone around you. And I was one of them."

Kraus further explores Kalhor’s early relationship with music, emphasizing his initial exposure to the Comanche and his admiration for Ustad Bahari, an old master who played the instrument on national television.

David Kraus [04:51]: "You were born in Iran and began the Comanche at a very young age. What were your first memories of the instrument and what initially drew you to it?"

Kayhan Kalhor [05:01]: "There was this old master of Comanche... I used to watch him and just fell in love with that sound."

3. Development as a Comanche Player

Kalhor discusses his dedication to mastering the Comanche despite the lack of available teachers in his small city. At around ten years old, he made the bold decision to pursue this path, driven by the unique, human quality of the instrument's sound that resonated deeply with him.

Kayhan Kalhor [06:23]: "The human quality of the sound that it produced, that the violin didn't do for me. There was this reedy human voice quality into it."

4. Transition to Professional Music

By the age of thirteen, Kalhor had already achieved professional status, performing with the National Radio and Television Orchestra of Iran. He recounts the challenges of being the only child among seasoned adult musicians and the mentorship he received to build his confidence within the ensemble.

Kayhan Kalhor [07:11]: "Scary in the beginning because all my colleagues were in their 40s or 50s or more. But I tried to be myself..."

5. Journey to Europe and Founding the Silk Road Ensemble

Kalhor narrates his courageous decision at seventeen to leave Iran for Europe amidst the cultural and political upheaval. His journey took him through Turkey, Romania, and Yugoslavia over 2,500 miles to Rome, carrying only a backpack and his Comanche. This pivotal moment not only marked his transition to the Western classical music scene but also set the stage for his future collaborations.

Kayhan Kalhor [10:59]: "This is why I perform all the time... I just want to try that state of mind, try to get there."

A landmark moment in his career was performing with Yo-Yo Ma and the New York Philharmonic in 1998. Kalhor describes the initial intimidation and subsequent camaraderie that developed, leading to his involvement with the Silk Road Ensemble—an ensemble dedicated to fostering cross-cultural musical dialogues.

Kayhan Kalhor [12:17]: "That was a scary moment for me... but the second, third, and fourth night went much better."

6. Return to Iran and Commitment to Teaching

Amid rising anti-Muslim sentiment post-9/11, Kalhor felt compelled to return to Iran despite the country's cultural restrictions. He emphasizes his responsibility to mentor the younger generation of Iranian musicians, aiming to make the path to musical excellence more accessible based on his own challenging experiences.

Kayhan Kalhor [15:11]: "I definitely felt a responsibility towards younger generation of musicians because I didn't want them to go through what I went through..."

7. Music as an Anchor Amid Political Turbulence

Throughout his life, especially during periods of intense political and cultural shifts, Kalhor views music as his anchor. He discusses how music provides a refuge and a means to bridge cultural divides, fostering understanding and peace despite external adversities.

Kayhan Kalhor [16:21]: "Music was an anchor and a reason other than music or culture... It has saved me. That's a refuge."

8. Conclusion and Reflections

In closing, Kalhor reflects on the profound impact music has had on his life, both personally and professionally. He underscores the power of art to transcend political and cultural barriers, reinforcing his commitment to his craft and his hope for a more harmonious world through musical collaboration.

Kayhan Kalhor [18:05]: "Don't lose yourself, though."

David Kraus wraps up the episode by expressing admiration for Kalhor's inspiring journey and musical genius, encouraging listeners to continue exploring his work.

David Kraus [18:15]: "Your music is amazing and your life is inspiring. So thank you."

Notable Quotes Highlight:

• Kayhan Kalhor [05:01]: "There was this old master of Comanche... I used to watch him and just fell in love with that sound."
• Kayhan Kalhor [06:23]: "The human quality of the sound that it produced, that the violin didn't do for me."
• Kayhan Kalhor [16:21]: "Music was an anchor and a reason other than music or culture... It has saved me. That's a refuge."

Key Takeaways:

• Resilience Through Music: Kalhor's journey exemplifies how music can serve as a refuge and a bridge in times of personal and political upheaval.
• Cultural Preservation and Innovation: Through his dedication to the Comanche and involvement with the Silk Road Ensemble, Kalhor plays a crucial role in preserving traditional Persian music while fostering cross-cultural collaborations.
• Mentorship and Legacy: His commitment to teaching underscores the importance of nurturing the next generation of musicians, ensuring the continuity and evolution of his musical heritage.

This episode offers a deep dive into Kayhan Kalhor's life, showcasing his unwavering passion for music, his role as a cultural ambassador, and his enduring influence on the global music landscape.