Persian Band Kickstarts Musical Career in Windsor

From left to right: Payam Sharifi, Pedram Nafisi, Danial Ebrat, Shebab Taheri

The eight–piece Persian music band Ariana performed for the first time in Canada on Oct. 5.  

Filling the Sho Art Studio in Walkerville, both Persians and Windsorites alike gathered to hear the Ariana Band play traditional Persian tunes.  

Narvin Fazlaliserkani is a 17-year-old piano and box-drum player – the youngest member of the band. She said the most nerve-wracking part of the show is not when she has an instrument in her hands.

“I feel the most nervous between each piece,” said Narvin. “When you start playing, you’re very focused, so you don’t feel it as much.” 

Narvin Fazlaliserkani

Despite the anticipatory jitters Narvin described, lead singer and guitarist Danial Ebrat said his favourite part of performing is the here and now. 

“When I’m playing with the group, the most enjoyable part is living in the moment,” said Ebrat. “I don’t think about anything else besides what I’m performing.”

Before each song, Ebrat explained the meaning and origins behind it. Band member Shahab Taheri, who plays the santoor, a traditional Persian instrument, said there is a reason they chose the particular songs on that nights setlist. 

“Our main inspiration is choosing songs that bring a feeling of nostalgia to our audience,” said Taheri. “We want them to feel at home, even though we are in a different country.”

From left to right: Jalal Maleki, Maryam Hoorshenas, Masoud Kanani

Maryam Hoorshenas, who plays the traditional Persian percussion instruments daf and cajón, said she is enjoying her time in Windsor so far.  

“It’s a very beautiful city,” said Hoorshenas. “I love the nature here, especially the riverfront.”  

To learn more about local Persian events, visit www.windsorpersiancentre.com.