BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Oakland Asian Cultural Center - ECPv6.16.3//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:Oakland Asian Cultural Center X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://oacc.cc X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Oakland Asian Cultural Center REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Los_Angeles BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20230312T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20231105T090000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20240310T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20241103T090000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20250309T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20251102T090000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20260308T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20261101T090000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250518T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250518T160000 DTSTAMP:20260806T165124 CREATED:20250326T203839Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250513T002001Z UID:21128-1747576800-1747584000@oacc.cc SUMMARY:"Daryo’s All-American Diner": An Anti-Asian Hate Play DESCRIPTION:A concert of Indian\, Persian and Afghan classical music featuring Arjun K. Verma\, Pezhham Akhavass\, Mazdak Alipour\, and Eman Hashimi   — \n \n \n \n Friday\, September 11\, 20267-9 pm$40 General Admission  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Interweaving brings together four virtuoso musicians from the Indian\, Persian\, and Afghan musical traditions in a rare meeting of some of Asia’s richest classical musical cultures. Featuring sitar\, kamancheh\, tabla\, daf\, and tombak\, this performance explores the deep historical connections and living dialogue between these traditions through improvisation\, virtuosity\, and collaborative creation. The very name of the Indian sitar is derived from Persian seh-tar (“three strings”)\, hinting at the centuries of artistic exchange between the Indian subcontinent and Persia.    Building on this shared heritage\, the musicians weave together intricate rhythmic cycles\, expressive melodic modes\, and spontaneous improvisation\, revealing both the common threads and distinctive voices of these musical lineages. Interweaving invites audiences into a shared sonic landscape where rhythm\, melody\, and improvisation transcend geography\, honoring centuries of cultural tradition and exchange\, while creating something entirely new in the moment.    Interweaving is presented by the Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, made possible through the Musical Grant Program\, administered by InterMusic SF\, and supported by the Clarence E. Heller Charitable Foundation and the Hewlett Foundation.    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Reserve Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT THE ARTISTS \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Arjun K. Verma is both a tradition-bearer and innovator in the world of North Indian Classical music. With over three decades of performance experience at venues including the United Nations\, the Fillmore\, and Prague Castle\, Arjun has emerged with a unique voice on the sitar – both within the tradition of North Indian Classical Music\, and through innovative cross-genre collaborations.    Hailed by the New York Times as a “fine sitarist\,” Arjun shares his cultural heritage in a manner that is fresh and modern\, while maintaining high standards of traditional integrity. His work is influenced by his upbringing as an Indian Classical musician in the West\, trained by Maestro Ali Akbar Khan. Arjun’s performance repertoire has stretched the limits of the sitar\, and his recording and composing work encompasses TV\, opera\, film\, and video games. He has recorded with artists including the London Symphony Orchestra\, Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, Sri Alam Khan\, and Grammy-winning jazz arranger and pianist John Beasley.    Learn more at arjun-verma.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Pezhham Akhavass is an accomplished musician\, percussionist\, multi-instrumentalist\, educator\, music director\, producer\, Voting Member of the Recording Academy (GRAMMY)\, and instructor known for his mastery of the tombak (Persian goblet drum)\, and daf (Persian frame drum). His exceptional talent and unique rhythmic approach have distinguished him as one of the most notable musicians of his generation.    Born in Iran in 1980\, Pezhham embarked on his musical journey under the guidance of his renowned father\, Mostafa Akhavass. He began studying tombak at age five with the esteemed Ostad Naser Farhanghfar\, later continuing with Mr. Saeid Roudbary. He holds BA and MA degrees in music from San Francisco State University\, and began studying tabla with Ustad Zakir Hussain in 2011.    Pezhham’s career includes performances at prestigious festivals and concert halls across Iran and internationally with renowned vocalist Shahram Nazeri\, and collaborations with Ostad Hossein Alizadeh and Ustad Zakir Hussain.    Learn more at www.pezhham.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Mazdak (Moslem) Alipour is a visionary Kamancheh player\, vocalist\, and composer\, with a distinguished career spanning over 30 years. Born into a musical lineage in Khorramabad\, Iran\, he began his journey under the tutelage of his father\, the legendary maestro Faraj Alipour.    Mazdak is a celebrated artist on the global stage\, earning prestigious recognition for innovation in Persian music:    • Global Music Awards: Silver and Bronze Medals   • Silk Road Project: Featured soloist conducted by Academy Award-winning Tan Dun   • UNESCO: Distinguished performer at “Mozart Day” in France   • UCLA: specialized performances and cultural initiatives   Based in Los Angeles\, Mazdak’s mastery of musical fusion blends ancient Persian heritage with contemporary global genres. With over 20 albums and the publication of “Taal” (a seminal book on Lori music)\, he continues to influence the world music scene through film scoring\, international tours\, and advanced music education.    Learn more at MazdakAlipour.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Eman Hashimi\, one of today’s most sought-after Afghan percussionists\, is widely recognized as the future of Afghan tabla. Born into the celebrated Hashimi musical family of Kabul’s historic Kharabat quarter\, he is the son of legendary maestro Ustad Toryalai Hashimi\, a pioneer of Afghan tabla.    A child prodigy\, Eman gave his first concert at age nine alongside his father\, later studying under world-renowned Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, with whom he became one of the youngest tabla players to perform in duet. His artistry bridges Afghan classical and folk traditions with the Punjab Gharana of tabla.    Eman has performed at the Kennedy Center\, San Francisco World Music Festival and beyond\, collaborating across genres. He also serves as founder and Director of Percussion at PACA\, preserving and promoting Afghanistan’s musical heritage at a time when music is banned in its homeland.    Learn more at emanhashimi.com URL:https://oacc.cc/event/daryos-all-american-diner/ LOCATION:Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, 388 9th St. #290\, Oakland\, CA\, 94607\, United States CATEGORIES:Featured,Upcoming Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oacc.cc/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/DARYOs.png ORGANIZER;CN="Oakland Asian Cultural Center":MAILTO:programs@oacc.cc END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250427T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250427T160000 DTSTAMP:20260806T165124 CREATED:20250326T194249Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250326T194416Z UID:21124-1745762400-1745769600@oacc.cc SUMMARY:"Silencing the Drum: Religious Racism and Afro-Brazilian Sacred Music\," a Book Talk and Dynamic Presentation with Author Dr. Umi Vaughan. DESCRIPTION:A concert of Indian\, Persian and Afghan classical music featuring Arjun K. Verma\, Pezhham Akhavass\, Mazdak Alipour\, and Eman Hashimi   — \n \n \n \n Friday\, September 11\, 20267-9 pm$40 General Admission  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Interweaving brings together four virtuoso musicians from the Indian\, Persian\, and Afghan musical traditions in a rare meeting of some of Asia’s richest classical musical cultures. Featuring sitar\, kamancheh\, tabla\, daf\, and tombak\, this performance explores the deep historical connections and living dialogue between these traditions through improvisation\, virtuosity\, and collaborative creation. The very name of the Indian sitar is derived from Persian seh-tar (“three strings”)\, hinting at the centuries of artistic exchange between the Indian subcontinent and Persia.    Building on this shared heritage\, the musicians weave together intricate rhythmic cycles\, expressive melodic modes\, and spontaneous improvisation\, revealing both the common threads and distinctive voices of these musical lineages. Interweaving invites audiences into a shared sonic landscape where rhythm\, melody\, and improvisation transcend geography\, honoring centuries of cultural tradition and exchange\, while creating something entirely new in the moment.    Interweaving is presented by the Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, made possible through the Musical Grant Program\, administered by InterMusic SF\, and supported by the Clarence E. Heller Charitable Foundation and the Hewlett Foundation.    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Reserve Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT THE ARTISTS \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Arjun K. Verma is both a tradition-bearer and innovator in the world of North Indian Classical music. With over three decades of performance experience at venues including the United Nations\, the Fillmore\, and Prague Castle\, Arjun has emerged with a unique voice on the sitar – both within the tradition of North Indian Classical Music\, and through innovative cross-genre collaborations.    Hailed by the New York Times as a “fine sitarist\,” Arjun shares his cultural heritage in a manner that is fresh and modern\, while maintaining high standards of traditional integrity. His work is influenced by his upbringing as an Indian Classical musician in the West\, trained by Maestro Ali Akbar Khan. Arjun’s performance repertoire has stretched the limits of the sitar\, and his recording and composing work encompasses TV\, opera\, film\, and video games. He has recorded with artists including the London Symphony Orchestra\, Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, Sri Alam Khan\, and Grammy-winning jazz arranger and pianist John Beasley.    Learn more at arjun-verma.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Pezhham Akhavass is an accomplished musician\, percussionist\, multi-instrumentalist\, educator\, music director\, producer\, Voting Member of the Recording Academy (GRAMMY)\, and instructor known for his mastery of the tombak (Persian goblet drum)\, and daf (Persian frame drum). His exceptional talent and unique rhythmic approach have distinguished him as one of the most notable musicians of his generation.    Born in Iran in 1980\, Pezhham embarked on his musical journey under the guidance of his renowned father\, Mostafa Akhavass. He began studying tombak at age five with the esteemed Ostad Naser Farhanghfar\, later continuing with Mr. Saeid Roudbary. He holds BA and MA degrees in music from San Francisco State University\, and began studying tabla with Ustad Zakir Hussain in 2011.    Pezhham’s career includes performances at prestigious festivals and concert halls across Iran and internationally with renowned vocalist Shahram Nazeri\, and collaborations with Ostad Hossein Alizadeh and Ustad Zakir Hussain.    Learn more at www.pezhham.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Mazdak (Moslem) Alipour is a visionary Kamancheh player\, vocalist\, and composer\, with a distinguished career spanning over 30 years. Born into a musical lineage in Khorramabad\, Iran\, he began his journey under the tutelage of his father\, the legendary maestro Faraj Alipour.    Mazdak is a celebrated artist on the global stage\, earning prestigious recognition for innovation in Persian music:    • Global Music Awards: Silver and Bronze Medals   • Silk Road Project: Featured soloist conducted by Academy Award-winning Tan Dun   • UNESCO: Distinguished performer at “Mozart Day” in France   • UCLA: specialized performances and cultural initiatives   Based in Los Angeles\, Mazdak’s mastery of musical fusion blends ancient Persian heritage with contemporary global genres. With over 20 albums and the publication of “Taal” (a seminal book on Lori music)\, he continues to influence the world music scene through film scoring\, international tours\, and advanced music education.    Learn more at MazdakAlipour.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Eman Hashimi\, one of today’s most sought-after Afghan percussionists\, is widely recognized as the future of Afghan tabla. Born into the celebrated Hashimi musical family of Kabul’s historic Kharabat quarter\, he is the son of legendary maestro Ustad Toryalai Hashimi\, a pioneer of Afghan tabla.    A child prodigy\, Eman gave his first concert at age nine alongside his father\, later studying under world-renowned Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, with whom he became one of the youngest tabla players to perform in duet. His artistry bridges Afghan classical and folk traditions with the Punjab Gharana of tabla.    Eman has performed at the Kennedy Center\, San Francisco World Music Festival and beyond\, collaborating across genres. He also serves as founder and Director of Percussion at PACA\, preserving and promoting Afghanistan’s musical heritage at a time when music is banned in its homeland.    Learn more at emanhashimi.com URL:https://oacc.cc/event/silencing-the-drum-religious-racism-and-afro-brazilian-sacred-music/ LOCATION:Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, 388 9th St. #290\, Oakland\, CA\, 94607\, United States CATEGORIES:Featured,Upcoming Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oacc.cc/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Silencing-the-Drum-thumbnail.png ORGANIZER;CN="Oakland Asian Cultural Center":MAILTO:programs@oacc.cc END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250419T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250419T170000 DTSTAMP:20260806T165124 CREATED:20250305T175246Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250331T201340Z UID:21018-1745074800-1745082000@oacc.cc SUMMARY:Celebrating Our HeART-filled Heritage: "The Rebirth of Apsara: Beyond Genocide." A Performance by Charya Burt Cambodian Dance. DESCRIPTION:A concert of Indian\, Persian and Afghan classical music featuring Arjun K. Verma\, Pezhham Akhavass\, Mazdak Alipour\, and Eman Hashimi   — \n \n \n \n Friday\, September 11\, 20267-9 pm$40 General Admission  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Interweaving brings together four virtuoso musicians from the Indian\, Persian\, and Afghan musical traditions in a rare meeting of some of Asia’s richest classical musical cultures. Featuring sitar\, kamancheh\, tabla\, daf\, and tombak\, this performance explores the deep historical connections and living dialogue between these traditions through improvisation\, virtuosity\, and collaborative creation. The very name of the Indian sitar is derived from Persian seh-tar (“three strings”)\, hinting at the centuries of artistic exchange between the Indian subcontinent and Persia.    Building on this shared heritage\, the musicians weave together intricate rhythmic cycles\, expressive melodic modes\, and spontaneous improvisation\, revealing both the common threads and distinctive voices of these musical lineages. Interweaving invites audiences into a shared sonic landscape where rhythm\, melody\, and improvisation transcend geography\, honoring centuries of cultural tradition and exchange\, while creating something entirely new in the moment.    Interweaving is presented by the Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, made possible through the Musical Grant Program\, administered by InterMusic SF\, and supported by the Clarence E. Heller Charitable Foundation and the Hewlett Foundation.    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Reserve Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT THE ARTISTS \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Arjun K. Verma is both a tradition-bearer and innovator in the world of North Indian Classical music. With over three decades of performance experience at venues including the United Nations\, the Fillmore\, and Prague Castle\, Arjun has emerged with a unique voice on the sitar – both within the tradition of North Indian Classical Music\, and through innovative cross-genre collaborations.    Hailed by the New York Times as a “fine sitarist\,” Arjun shares his cultural heritage in a manner that is fresh and modern\, while maintaining high standards of traditional integrity. His work is influenced by his upbringing as an Indian Classical musician in the West\, trained by Maestro Ali Akbar Khan. Arjun’s performance repertoire has stretched the limits of the sitar\, and his recording and composing work encompasses TV\, opera\, film\, and video games. He has recorded with artists including the London Symphony Orchestra\, Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, Sri Alam Khan\, and Grammy-winning jazz arranger and pianist John Beasley.    Learn more at arjun-verma.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Pezhham Akhavass is an accomplished musician\, percussionist\, multi-instrumentalist\, educator\, music director\, producer\, Voting Member of the Recording Academy (GRAMMY)\, and instructor known for his mastery of the tombak (Persian goblet drum)\, and daf (Persian frame drum). His exceptional talent and unique rhythmic approach have distinguished him as one of the most notable musicians of his generation.    Born in Iran in 1980\, Pezhham embarked on his musical journey under the guidance of his renowned father\, Mostafa Akhavass. He began studying tombak at age five with the esteemed Ostad Naser Farhanghfar\, later continuing with Mr. Saeid Roudbary. He holds BA and MA degrees in music from San Francisco State University\, and began studying tabla with Ustad Zakir Hussain in 2011.    Pezhham’s career includes performances at prestigious festivals and concert halls across Iran and internationally with renowned vocalist Shahram Nazeri\, and collaborations with Ostad Hossein Alizadeh and Ustad Zakir Hussain.    Learn more at www.pezhham.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Mazdak (Moslem) Alipour is a visionary Kamancheh player\, vocalist\, and composer\, with a distinguished career spanning over 30 years. Born into a musical lineage in Khorramabad\, Iran\, he began his journey under the tutelage of his father\, the legendary maestro Faraj Alipour.    Mazdak is a celebrated artist on the global stage\, earning prestigious recognition for innovation in Persian music:    • Global Music Awards: Silver and Bronze Medals   • Silk Road Project: Featured soloist conducted by Academy Award-winning Tan Dun   • UNESCO: Distinguished performer at “Mozart Day” in France   • UCLA: specialized performances and cultural initiatives   Based in Los Angeles\, Mazdak’s mastery of musical fusion blends ancient Persian heritage with contemporary global genres. With over 20 albums and the publication of “Taal” (a seminal book on Lori music)\, he continues to influence the world music scene through film scoring\, international tours\, and advanced music education.    Learn more at MazdakAlipour.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Eman Hashimi\, one of today’s most sought-after Afghan percussionists\, is widely recognized as the future of Afghan tabla. Born into the celebrated Hashimi musical family of Kabul’s historic Kharabat quarter\, he is the son of legendary maestro Ustad Toryalai Hashimi\, a pioneer of Afghan tabla.    A child prodigy\, Eman gave his first concert at age nine alongside his father\, later studying under world-renowned Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, with whom he became one of the youngest tabla players to perform in duet. His artistry bridges Afghan classical and folk traditions with the Punjab Gharana of tabla.    Eman has performed at the Kennedy Center\, San Francisco World Music Festival and beyond\, collaborating across genres. He also serves as founder and Director of Percussion at PACA\, preserving and promoting Afghanistan’s musical heritage at a time when music is banned in its homeland.    Learn more at emanhashimi.com URL:https://oacc.cc/event/the-rebirth-of-apsara-beyond-genocide/ LOCATION:Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, 388 9th St. #290\, Oakland\, CA\, 94607\, United States CATEGORIES:Featured,Upcoming Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oacc.cc/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Charya_Burt_1080x1080_thumb.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Oakland Asian Cultural Center":MAILTO:programs@oacc.cc END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250419T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250419T140000 DTSTAMP:20260806T165124 CREATED:20250308T004351Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250308T004716Z UID:21081-1745064000-1745071200@oacc.cc SUMMARY:Visible Mending For Stains & Patches DESCRIPTION:A concert of Indian\, Persian and Afghan classical music featuring Arjun K. Verma\, Pezhham Akhavass\, Mazdak Alipour\, and Eman Hashimi   — \n \n \n \n Friday\, September 11\, 20267-9 pm$40 General Admission  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Interweaving brings together four virtuoso musicians from the Indian\, Persian\, and Afghan musical traditions in a rare meeting of some of Asia’s richest classical musical cultures. Featuring sitar\, kamancheh\, tabla\, daf\, and tombak\, this performance explores the deep historical connections and living dialogue between these traditions through improvisation\, virtuosity\, and collaborative creation. The very name of the Indian sitar is derived from Persian seh-tar (“three strings”)\, hinting at the centuries of artistic exchange between the Indian subcontinent and Persia.    Building on this shared heritage\, the musicians weave together intricate rhythmic cycles\, expressive melodic modes\, and spontaneous improvisation\, revealing both the common threads and distinctive voices of these musical lineages. Interweaving invites audiences into a shared sonic landscape where rhythm\, melody\, and improvisation transcend geography\, honoring centuries of cultural tradition and exchange\, while creating something entirely new in the moment.    Interweaving is presented by the Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, made possible through the Musical Grant Program\, administered by InterMusic SF\, and supported by the Clarence E. Heller Charitable Foundation and the Hewlett Foundation.    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Reserve Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT THE ARTISTS \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Arjun K. Verma is both a tradition-bearer and innovator in the world of North Indian Classical music. With over three decades of performance experience at venues including the United Nations\, the Fillmore\, and Prague Castle\, Arjun has emerged with a unique voice on the sitar – both within the tradition of North Indian Classical Music\, and through innovative cross-genre collaborations.    Hailed by the New York Times as a “fine sitarist\,” Arjun shares his cultural heritage in a manner that is fresh and modern\, while maintaining high standards of traditional integrity. His work is influenced by his upbringing as an Indian Classical musician in the West\, trained by Maestro Ali Akbar Khan. Arjun’s performance repertoire has stretched the limits of the sitar\, and his recording and composing work encompasses TV\, opera\, film\, and video games. He has recorded with artists including the London Symphony Orchestra\, Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, Sri Alam Khan\, and Grammy-winning jazz arranger and pianist John Beasley.    Learn more at arjun-verma.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Pezhham Akhavass is an accomplished musician\, percussionist\, multi-instrumentalist\, educator\, music director\, producer\, Voting Member of the Recording Academy (GRAMMY)\, and instructor known for his mastery of the tombak (Persian goblet drum)\, and daf (Persian frame drum). His exceptional talent and unique rhythmic approach have distinguished him as one of the most notable musicians of his generation.    Born in Iran in 1980\, Pezhham embarked on his musical journey under the guidance of his renowned father\, Mostafa Akhavass. He began studying tombak at age five with the esteemed Ostad Naser Farhanghfar\, later continuing with Mr. Saeid Roudbary. He holds BA and MA degrees in music from San Francisco State University\, and began studying tabla with Ustad Zakir Hussain in 2011.    Pezhham’s career includes performances at prestigious festivals and concert halls across Iran and internationally with renowned vocalist Shahram Nazeri\, and collaborations with Ostad Hossein Alizadeh and Ustad Zakir Hussain.    Learn more at www.pezhham.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Mazdak (Moslem) Alipour is a visionary Kamancheh player\, vocalist\, and composer\, with a distinguished career spanning over 30 years. Born into a musical lineage in Khorramabad\, Iran\, he began his journey under the tutelage of his father\, the legendary maestro Faraj Alipour.    Mazdak is a celebrated artist on the global stage\, earning prestigious recognition for innovation in Persian music:    • Global Music Awards: Silver and Bronze Medals   • Silk Road Project: Featured soloist conducted by Academy Award-winning Tan Dun   • UNESCO: Distinguished performer at “Mozart Day” in France   • UCLA: specialized performances and cultural initiatives   Based in Los Angeles\, Mazdak’s mastery of musical fusion blends ancient Persian heritage with contemporary global genres. With over 20 albums and the publication of “Taal” (a seminal book on Lori music)\, he continues to influence the world music scene through film scoring\, international tours\, and advanced music education.    Learn more at MazdakAlipour.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Eman Hashimi\, one of today’s most sought-after Afghan percussionists\, is widely recognized as the future of Afghan tabla. Born into the celebrated Hashimi musical family of Kabul’s historic Kharabat quarter\, he is the son of legendary maestro Ustad Toryalai Hashimi\, a pioneer of Afghan tabla.    A child prodigy\, Eman gave his first concert at age nine alongside his father\, later studying under world-renowned Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, with whom he became one of the youngest tabla players to perform in duet. His artistry bridges Afghan classical and folk traditions with the Punjab Gharana of tabla.    Eman has performed at the Kennedy Center\, San Francisco World Music Festival and beyond\, collaborating across genres. He also serves as founder and Director of Percussion at PACA\, preserving and promoting Afghanistan’s musical heritage at a time when music is banned in its homeland.    Learn more at emanhashimi.com URL:https://oacc.cc/event/visiblemending-2/ LOCATION:Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, 388 9th St. #290\, Oakland\, CA\, 94607\, United States CATEGORIES:Upcoming Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oacc.cc/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/visible-mending-flyer.png ORGANIZER;CN="Oakland Asian Cultural Center":MAILTO:programs@oacc.cc END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250411T193000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250411T213000 DTSTAMP:20260806T165124 CREATED:20250306T190554Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250408T173148Z UID:21030-1744399800-1744407000@oacc.cc SUMMARY:All Mixed Up! A Mixer Celebrating Multi-Racial Identity DESCRIPTION:A concert of Indian\, Persian and Afghan classical music featuring Arjun K. Verma\, Pezhham Akhavass\, Mazdak Alipour\, and Eman Hashimi   — \n \n \n \n Friday\, September 11\, 20267-9 pm$40 General Admission  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Interweaving brings together four virtuoso musicians from the Indian\, Persian\, and Afghan musical traditions in a rare meeting of some of Asia’s richest classical musical cultures. Featuring sitar\, kamancheh\, tabla\, daf\, and tombak\, this performance explores the deep historical connections and living dialogue between these traditions through improvisation\, virtuosity\, and collaborative creation. The very name of the Indian sitar is derived from Persian seh-tar (“three strings”)\, hinting at the centuries of artistic exchange between the Indian subcontinent and Persia.    Building on this shared heritage\, the musicians weave together intricate rhythmic cycles\, expressive melodic modes\, and spontaneous improvisation\, revealing both the common threads and distinctive voices of these musical lineages. Interweaving invites audiences into a shared sonic landscape where rhythm\, melody\, and improvisation transcend geography\, honoring centuries of cultural tradition and exchange\, while creating something entirely new in the moment.    Interweaving is presented by the Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, made possible through the Musical Grant Program\, administered by InterMusic SF\, and supported by the Clarence E. Heller Charitable Foundation and the Hewlett Foundation.    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Reserve Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT THE ARTISTS \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Arjun K. Verma is both a tradition-bearer and innovator in the world of North Indian Classical music. With over three decades of performance experience at venues including the United Nations\, the Fillmore\, and Prague Castle\, Arjun has emerged with a unique voice on the sitar – both within the tradition of North Indian Classical Music\, and through innovative cross-genre collaborations.    Hailed by the New York Times as a “fine sitarist\,” Arjun shares his cultural heritage in a manner that is fresh and modern\, while maintaining high standards of traditional integrity. His work is influenced by his upbringing as an Indian Classical musician in the West\, trained by Maestro Ali Akbar Khan. Arjun’s performance repertoire has stretched the limits of the sitar\, and his recording and composing work encompasses TV\, opera\, film\, and video games. He has recorded with artists including the London Symphony Orchestra\, Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, Sri Alam Khan\, and Grammy-winning jazz arranger and pianist John Beasley.    Learn more at arjun-verma.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Pezhham Akhavass is an accomplished musician\, percussionist\, multi-instrumentalist\, educator\, music director\, producer\, Voting Member of the Recording Academy (GRAMMY)\, and instructor known for his mastery of the tombak (Persian goblet drum)\, and daf (Persian frame drum). His exceptional talent and unique rhythmic approach have distinguished him as one of the most notable musicians of his generation.    Born in Iran in 1980\, Pezhham embarked on his musical journey under the guidance of his renowned father\, Mostafa Akhavass. He began studying tombak at age five with the esteemed Ostad Naser Farhanghfar\, later continuing with Mr. Saeid Roudbary. He holds BA and MA degrees in music from San Francisco State University\, and began studying tabla with Ustad Zakir Hussain in 2011.    Pezhham’s career includes performances at prestigious festivals and concert halls across Iran and internationally with renowned vocalist Shahram Nazeri\, and collaborations with Ostad Hossein Alizadeh and Ustad Zakir Hussain.    Learn more at www.pezhham.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Mazdak (Moslem) Alipour is a visionary Kamancheh player\, vocalist\, and composer\, with a distinguished career spanning over 30 years. Born into a musical lineage in Khorramabad\, Iran\, he began his journey under the tutelage of his father\, the legendary maestro Faraj Alipour.    Mazdak is a celebrated artist on the global stage\, earning prestigious recognition for innovation in Persian music:    • Global Music Awards: Silver and Bronze Medals   • Silk Road Project: Featured soloist conducted by Academy Award-winning Tan Dun   • UNESCO: Distinguished performer at “Mozart Day” in France   • UCLA: specialized performances and cultural initiatives   Based in Los Angeles\, Mazdak’s mastery of musical fusion blends ancient Persian heritage with contemporary global genres. With over 20 albums and the publication of “Taal” (a seminal book on Lori music)\, he continues to influence the world music scene through film scoring\, international tours\, and advanced music education.    Learn more at MazdakAlipour.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Eman Hashimi\, one of today’s most sought-after Afghan percussionists\, is widely recognized as the future of Afghan tabla. Born into the celebrated Hashimi musical family of Kabul’s historic Kharabat quarter\, he is the son of legendary maestro Ustad Toryalai Hashimi\, a pioneer of Afghan tabla.    A child prodigy\, Eman gave his first concert at age nine alongside his father\, later studying under world-renowned Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, with whom he became one of the youngest tabla players to perform in duet. His artistry bridges Afghan classical and folk traditions with the Punjab Gharana of tabla.    Eman has performed at the Kennedy Center\, San Francisco World Music Festival and beyond\, collaborating across genres. He also serves as founder and Director of Percussion at PACA\, preserving and promoting Afghanistan’s musical heritage at a time when music is banned in its homeland.    Learn more at emanhashimi.com URL:https://oacc.cc/event/all-mixed-up-a-mixer-celebrating-multi-racial-identity/ LOCATION:Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, 388 9th St. #290\, Oakland\, CA\, 94607\, United States CATEGORIES:Featured,Upcoming Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oacc.cc/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/UPDATED-THUMBNAIL.png ORGANIZER;CN="Oakland Asian Cultural Center":MAILTO:programs@oacc.cc END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250322T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250322T150000 DTSTAMP:20260806T165124 CREATED:20250207T212331Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250225T195915Z UID:20948-1742648400-1742655600@oacc.cc SUMMARY:"Not Your China Doll: The Wild and Shimmering Life of Anna May Wong." Book Release Event with Katie Gee Salisbury DESCRIPTION:A concert of Indian\, Persian and Afghan classical music featuring Arjun K. Verma\, Pezhham Akhavass\, Mazdak Alipour\, and Eman Hashimi   — \n \n \n \n Friday\, September 11\, 20267-9 pm$40 General Admission  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Interweaving brings together four virtuoso musicians from the Indian\, Persian\, and Afghan musical traditions in a rare meeting of some of Asia’s richest classical musical cultures. Featuring sitar\, kamancheh\, tabla\, daf\, and tombak\, this performance explores the deep historical connections and living dialogue between these traditions through improvisation\, virtuosity\, and collaborative creation. The very name of the Indian sitar is derived from Persian seh-tar (“three strings”)\, hinting at the centuries of artistic exchange between the Indian subcontinent and Persia.    Building on this shared heritage\, the musicians weave together intricate rhythmic cycles\, expressive melodic modes\, and spontaneous improvisation\, revealing both the common threads and distinctive voices of these musical lineages. Interweaving invites audiences into a shared sonic landscape where rhythm\, melody\, and improvisation transcend geography\, honoring centuries of cultural tradition and exchange\, while creating something entirely new in the moment.    Interweaving is presented by the Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, made possible through the Musical Grant Program\, administered by InterMusic SF\, and supported by the Clarence E. Heller Charitable Foundation and the Hewlett Foundation.    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Reserve Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT THE ARTISTS \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Arjun K. Verma is both a tradition-bearer and innovator in the world of North Indian Classical music. With over three decades of performance experience at venues including the United Nations\, the Fillmore\, and Prague Castle\, Arjun has emerged with a unique voice on the sitar – both within the tradition of North Indian Classical Music\, and through innovative cross-genre collaborations.    Hailed by the New York Times as a “fine sitarist\,” Arjun shares his cultural heritage in a manner that is fresh and modern\, while maintaining high standards of traditional integrity. His work is influenced by his upbringing as an Indian Classical musician in the West\, trained by Maestro Ali Akbar Khan. Arjun’s performance repertoire has stretched the limits of the sitar\, and his recording and composing work encompasses TV\, opera\, film\, and video games. He has recorded with artists including the London Symphony Orchestra\, Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, Sri Alam Khan\, and Grammy-winning jazz arranger and pianist John Beasley.    Learn more at arjun-verma.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Pezhham Akhavass is an accomplished musician\, percussionist\, multi-instrumentalist\, educator\, music director\, producer\, Voting Member of the Recording Academy (GRAMMY)\, and instructor known for his mastery of the tombak (Persian goblet drum)\, and daf (Persian frame drum). His exceptional talent and unique rhythmic approach have distinguished him as one of the most notable musicians of his generation.    Born in Iran in 1980\, Pezhham embarked on his musical journey under the guidance of his renowned father\, Mostafa Akhavass. He began studying tombak at age five with the esteemed Ostad Naser Farhanghfar\, later continuing with Mr. Saeid Roudbary. He holds BA and MA degrees in music from San Francisco State University\, and began studying tabla with Ustad Zakir Hussain in 2011.    Pezhham’s career includes performances at prestigious festivals and concert halls across Iran and internationally with renowned vocalist Shahram Nazeri\, and collaborations with Ostad Hossein Alizadeh and Ustad Zakir Hussain.    Learn more at www.pezhham.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Mazdak (Moslem) Alipour is a visionary Kamancheh player\, vocalist\, and composer\, with a distinguished career spanning over 30 years. Born into a musical lineage in Khorramabad\, Iran\, he began his journey under the tutelage of his father\, the legendary maestro Faraj Alipour.    Mazdak is a celebrated artist on the global stage\, earning prestigious recognition for innovation in Persian music:    • Global Music Awards: Silver and Bronze Medals   • Silk Road Project: Featured soloist conducted by Academy Award-winning Tan Dun   • UNESCO: Distinguished performer at “Mozart Day” in France   • UCLA: specialized performances and cultural initiatives   Based in Los Angeles\, Mazdak’s mastery of musical fusion blends ancient Persian heritage with contemporary global genres. With over 20 albums and the publication of “Taal” (a seminal book on Lori music)\, he continues to influence the world music scene through film scoring\, international tours\, and advanced music education.    Learn more at MazdakAlipour.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Eman Hashimi\, one of today’s most sought-after Afghan percussionists\, is widely recognized as the future of Afghan tabla. Born into the celebrated Hashimi musical family of Kabul’s historic Kharabat quarter\, he is the son of legendary maestro Ustad Toryalai Hashimi\, a pioneer of Afghan tabla.    A child prodigy\, Eman gave his first concert at age nine alongside his father\, later studying under world-renowned Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, with whom he became one of the youngest tabla players to perform in duet. His artistry bridges Afghan classical and folk traditions with the Punjab Gharana of tabla.    Eman has performed at the Kennedy Center\, San Francisco World Music Festival and beyond\, collaborating across genres. He also serves as founder and Director of Percussion at PACA\, preserving and promoting Afghanistan’s musical heritage at a time when music is banned in its homeland.    Learn more at emanhashimi.com URL:https://oacc.cc/event/notyourchinadoll/ LOCATION:Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, 388 9th St. #290\, Oakland\, CA\, 94607\, United States CATEGORIES:Featured,Upcoming Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oacc.cc/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/thumbnail-2.png ORGANIZER;CN="Oakland Asian Cultural Center":MAILTO:programs@oacc.cc END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250307T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250307T210000 DTSTAMP:20260806T165124 CREATED:20250207T210449Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250210T183132Z UID:20947-1741374000-1741381200@oacc.cc SUMMARY:Gumamela: An Intimate Preview. Florante Aguilar with Cascada de Flores and Special Guests Charmaine Clamor\, Jorge Mijangos\, and Greg Kehret DESCRIPTION:A concert of Indian\, Persian and Afghan classical music featuring Arjun K. Verma\, Pezhham Akhavass\, Mazdak Alipour\, and Eman Hashimi   — \n \n \n \n Friday\, September 11\, 20267-9 pm$40 General Admission  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Interweaving brings together four virtuoso musicians from the Indian\, Persian\, and Afghan musical traditions in a rare meeting of some of Asia’s richest classical musical cultures. Featuring sitar\, kamancheh\, tabla\, daf\, and tombak\, this performance explores the deep historical connections and living dialogue between these traditions through improvisation\, virtuosity\, and collaborative creation. The very name of the Indian sitar is derived from Persian seh-tar (“three strings”)\, hinting at the centuries of artistic exchange between the Indian subcontinent and Persia.    Building on this shared heritage\, the musicians weave together intricate rhythmic cycles\, expressive melodic modes\, and spontaneous improvisation\, revealing both the common threads and distinctive voices of these musical lineages. Interweaving invites audiences into a shared sonic landscape where rhythm\, melody\, and improvisation transcend geography\, honoring centuries of cultural tradition and exchange\, while creating something entirely new in the moment.    Interweaving is presented by the Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, made possible through the Musical Grant Program\, administered by InterMusic SF\, and supported by the Clarence E. Heller Charitable Foundation and the Hewlett Foundation.    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Reserve Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT THE ARTISTS \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Arjun K. Verma is both a tradition-bearer and innovator in the world of North Indian Classical music. With over three decades of performance experience at venues including the United Nations\, the Fillmore\, and Prague Castle\, Arjun has emerged with a unique voice on the sitar – both within the tradition of North Indian Classical Music\, and through innovative cross-genre collaborations.    Hailed by the New York Times as a “fine sitarist\,” Arjun shares his cultural heritage in a manner that is fresh and modern\, while maintaining high standards of traditional integrity. His work is influenced by his upbringing as an Indian Classical musician in the West\, trained by Maestro Ali Akbar Khan. Arjun’s performance repertoire has stretched the limits of the sitar\, and his recording and composing work encompasses TV\, opera\, film\, and video games. He has recorded with artists including the London Symphony Orchestra\, Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, Sri Alam Khan\, and Grammy-winning jazz arranger and pianist John Beasley.    Learn more at arjun-verma.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Pezhham Akhavass is an accomplished musician\, percussionist\, multi-instrumentalist\, educator\, music director\, producer\, Voting Member of the Recording Academy (GRAMMY)\, and instructor known for his mastery of the tombak (Persian goblet drum)\, and daf (Persian frame drum). His exceptional talent and unique rhythmic approach have distinguished him as one of the most notable musicians of his generation.    Born in Iran in 1980\, Pezhham embarked on his musical journey under the guidance of his renowned father\, Mostafa Akhavass. He began studying tombak at age five with the esteemed Ostad Naser Farhanghfar\, later continuing with Mr. Saeid Roudbary. He holds BA and MA degrees in music from San Francisco State University\, and began studying tabla with Ustad Zakir Hussain in 2011.    Pezhham’s career includes performances at prestigious festivals and concert halls across Iran and internationally with renowned vocalist Shahram Nazeri\, and collaborations with Ostad Hossein Alizadeh and Ustad Zakir Hussain.    Learn more at www.pezhham.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Mazdak (Moslem) Alipour is a visionary Kamancheh player\, vocalist\, and composer\, with a distinguished career spanning over 30 years. Born into a musical lineage in Khorramabad\, Iran\, he began his journey under the tutelage of his father\, the legendary maestro Faraj Alipour.    Mazdak is a celebrated artist on the global stage\, earning prestigious recognition for innovation in Persian music:    • Global Music Awards: Silver and Bronze Medals   • Silk Road Project: Featured soloist conducted by Academy Award-winning Tan Dun   • UNESCO: Distinguished performer at “Mozart Day” in France   • UCLA: specialized performances and cultural initiatives   Based in Los Angeles\, Mazdak’s mastery of musical fusion blends ancient Persian heritage with contemporary global genres. With over 20 albums and the publication of “Taal” (a seminal book on Lori music)\, he continues to influence the world music scene through film scoring\, international tours\, and advanced music education.    Learn more at MazdakAlipour.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Eman Hashimi\, one of today’s most sought-after Afghan percussionists\, is widely recognized as the future of Afghan tabla. Born into the celebrated Hashimi musical family of Kabul’s historic Kharabat quarter\, he is the son of legendary maestro Ustad Toryalai Hashimi\, a pioneer of Afghan tabla.    A child prodigy\, Eman gave his first concert at age nine alongside his father\, later studying under world-renowned Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, with whom he became one of the youngest tabla players to perform in duet. His artistry bridges Afghan classical and folk traditions with the Punjab Gharana of tabla.    Eman has performed at the Kennedy Center\, San Francisco World Music Festival and beyond\, collaborating across genres. He also serves as founder and Director of Percussion at PACA\, preserving and promoting Afghanistan’s musical heritage at a time when music is banned in its homeland.    Learn more at emanhashimi.com URL:https://oacc.cc/event/gumamela-an-intimate-preview/ LOCATION:Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, 388 9th St. #290\, Oakland\, CA\, 94607\, United States CATEGORIES:Featured,Upcoming Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oacc.cc/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/thumbnail.png ORGANIZER;CN="Oakland Asian Cultural Center":MAILTO:programs@oacc.cc END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250301T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250301T153000 DTSTAMP:20260806T165124 CREATED:20240822T180423Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250308T024424Z UID:19513-1740837600-1740843000@oacc.cc SUMMARY:"The Memory of Taste": Book Release Event with Chef Tu David Phu DESCRIPTION:A concert of Indian\, Persian and Afghan classical music featuring Arjun K. Verma\, Pezhham Akhavass\, Mazdak Alipour\, and Eman Hashimi   — \n \n \n \n Friday\, September 11\, 20267-9 pm$40 General Admission  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Interweaving brings together four virtuoso musicians from the Indian\, Persian\, and Afghan musical traditions in a rare meeting of some of Asia’s richest classical musical cultures. Featuring sitar\, kamancheh\, tabla\, daf\, and tombak\, this performance explores the deep historical connections and living dialogue between these traditions through improvisation\, virtuosity\, and collaborative creation. The very name of the Indian sitar is derived from Persian seh-tar (“three strings”)\, hinting at the centuries of artistic exchange between the Indian subcontinent and Persia.    Building on this shared heritage\, the musicians weave together intricate rhythmic cycles\, expressive melodic modes\, and spontaneous improvisation\, revealing both the common threads and distinctive voices of these musical lineages. Interweaving invites audiences into a shared sonic landscape where rhythm\, melody\, and improvisation transcend geography\, honoring centuries of cultural tradition and exchange\, while creating something entirely new in the moment.    Interweaving is presented by the Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, made possible through the Musical Grant Program\, administered by InterMusic SF\, and supported by the Clarence E. Heller Charitable Foundation and the Hewlett Foundation.    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Reserve Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT THE ARTISTS \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Arjun K. Verma is both a tradition-bearer and innovator in the world of North Indian Classical music. With over three decades of performance experience at venues including the United Nations\, the Fillmore\, and Prague Castle\, Arjun has emerged with a unique voice on the sitar – both within the tradition of North Indian Classical Music\, and through innovative cross-genre collaborations.    Hailed by the New York Times as a “fine sitarist\,” Arjun shares his cultural heritage in a manner that is fresh and modern\, while maintaining high standards of traditional integrity. His work is influenced by his upbringing as an Indian Classical musician in the West\, trained by Maestro Ali Akbar Khan. Arjun’s performance repertoire has stretched the limits of the sitar\, and his recording and composing work encompasses TV\, opera\, film\, and video games. He has recorded with artists including the London Symphony Orchestra\, Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, Sri Alam Khan\, and Grammy-winning jazz arranger and pianist John Beasley.    Learn more at arjun-verma.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Pezhham Akhavass is an accomplished musician\, percussionist\, multi-instrumentalist\, educator\, music director\, producer\, Voting Member of the Recording Academy (GRAMMY)\, and instructor known for his mastery of the tombak (Persian goblet drum)\, and daf (Persian frame drum). His exceptional talent and unique rhythmic approach have distinguished him as one of the most notable musicians of his generation.    Born in Iran in 1980\, Pezhham embarked on his musical journey under the guidance of his renowned father\, Mostafa Akhavass. He began studying tombak at age five with the esteemed Ostad Naser Farhanghfar\, later continuing with Mr. Saeid Roudbary. He holds BA and MA degrees in music from San Francisco State University\, and began studying tabla with Ustad Zakir Hussain in 2011.    Pezhham’s career includes performances at prestigious festivals and concert halls across Iran and internationally with renowned vocalist Shahram Nazeri\, and collaborations with Ostad Hossein Alizadeh and Ustad Zakir Hussain.    Learn more at www.pezhham.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Mazdak (Moslem) Alipour is a visionary Kamancheh player\, vocalist\, and composer\, with a distinguished career spanning over 30 years. Born into a musical lineage in Khorramabad\, Iran\, he began his journey under the tutelage of his father\, the legendary maestro Faraj Alipour.    Mazdak is a celebrated artist on the global stage\, earning prestigious recognition for innovation in Persian music:    • Global Music Awards: Silver and Bronze Medals   • Silk Road Project: Featured soloist conducted by Academy Award-winning Tan Dun   • UNESCO: Distinguished performer at “Mozart Day” in France   • UCLA: specialized performances and cultural initiatives   Based in Los Angeles\, Mazdak’s mastery of musical fusion blends ancient Persian heritage with contemporary global genres. With over 20 albums and the publication of “Taal” (a seminal book on Lori music)\, he continues to influence the world music scene through film scoring\, international tours\, and advanced music education.    Learn more at MazdakAlipour.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Eman Hashimi\, one of today’s most sought-after Afghan percussionists\, is widely recognized as the future of Afghan tabla. Born into the celebrated Hashimi musical family of Kabul’s historic Kharabat quarter\, he is the son of legendary maestro Ustad Toryalai Hashimi\, a pioneer of Afghan tabla.    A child prodigy\, Eman gave his first concert at age nine alongside his father\, later studying under world-renowned Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, with whom he became one of the youngest tabla players to perform in duet. His artistry bridges Afghan classical and folk traditions with the Punjab Gharana of tabla.    Eman has performed at the Kennedy Center\, San Francisco World Music Festival and beyond\, collaborating across genres. He also serves as founder and Director of Percussion at PACA\, preserving and promoting Afghanistan’s musical heritage at a time when music is banned in its homeland.    Learn more at emanhashimi.com URL:https://oacc.cc/event/thememoryoftaste/ LOCATION:Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, 388 9th St. #290\, Oakland\, CA\, 94607\, United States CATEGORIES:Featured,Past Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oacc.cc/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/thumbnail-NEW-DATE-2.png ORGANIZER;CN="Oakland Asian Cultural Center":MAILTO:programs@oacc.cc END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250220T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250220T203000 DTSTAMP:20260806T165124 CREATED:20250116T011202Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250306T184144Z UID:20843-1740076200-1740083400@oacc.cc SUMMARY:"The Camps America Built" - Honoring Day of Remembrance 2025 DESCRIPTION:A concert of Indian\, Persian and Afghan classical music featuring Arjun K. Verma\, Pezhham Akhavass\, Mazdak Alipour\, and Eman Hashimi   — \n \n \n \n Friday\, September 11\, 20267-9 pm$40 General Admission  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Interweaving brings together four virtuoso musicians from the Indian\, Persian\, and Afghan musical traditions in a rare meeting of some of Asia’s richest classical musical cultures. Featuring sitar\, kamancheh\, tabla\, daf\, and tombak\, this performance explores the deep historical connections and living dialogue between these traditions through improvisation\, virtuosity\, and collaborative creation. The very name of the Indian sitar is derived from Persian seh-tar (“three strings”)\, hinting at the centuries of artistic exchange between the Indian subcontinent and Persia.    Building on this shared heritage\, the musicians weave together intricate rhythmic cycles\, expressive melodic modes\, and spontaneous improvisation\, revealing both the common threads and distinctive voices of these musical lineages. Interweaving invites audiences into a shared sonic landscape where rhythm\, melody\, and improvisation transcend geography\, honoring centuries of cultural tradition and exchange\, while creating something entirely new in the moment.    Interweaving is presented by the Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, made possible through the Musical Grant Program\, administered by InterMusic SF\, and supported by the Clarence E. Heller Charitable Foundation and the Hewlett Foundation.    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Reserve Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT THE ARTISTS \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Arjun K. Verma is both a tradition-bearer and innovator in the world of North Indian Classical music. With over three decades of performance experience at venues including the United Nations\, the Fillmore\, and Prague Castle\, Arjun has emerged with a unique voice on the sitar – both within the tradition of North Indian Classical Music\, and through innovative cross-genre collaborations.    Hailed by the New York Times as a “fine sitarist\,” Arjun shares his cultural heritage in a manner that is fresh and modern\, while maintaining high standards of traditional integrity. His work is influenced by his upbringing as an Indian Classical musician in the West\, trained by Maestro Ali Akbar Khan. Arjun’s performance repertoire has stretched the limits of the sitar\, and his recording and composing work encompasses TV\, opera\, film\, and video games. He has recorded with artists including the London Symphony Orchestra\, Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, Sri Alam Khan\, and Grammy-winning jazz arranger and pianist John Beasley.    Learn more at arjun-verma.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Pezhham Akhavass is an accomplished musician\, percussionist\, multi-instrumentalist\, educator\, music director\, producer\, Voting Member of the Recording Academy (GRAMMY)\, and instructor known for his mastery of the tombak (Persian goblet drum)\, and daf (Persian frame drum). His exceptional talent and unique rhythmic approach have distinguished him as one of the most notable musicians of his generation.    Born in Iran in 1980\, Pezhham embarked on his musical journey under the guidance of his renowned father\, Mostafa Akhavass. He began studying tombak at age five with the esteemed Ostad Naser Farhanghfar\, later continuing with Mr. Saeid Roudbary. He holds BA and MA degrees in music from San Francisco State University\, and began studying tabla with Ustad Zakir Hussain in 2011.    Pezhham’s career includes performances at prestigious festivals and concert halls across Iran and internationally with renowned vocalist Shahram Nazeri\, and collaborations with Ostad Hossein Alizadeh and Ustad Zakir Hussain.    Learn more at www.pezhham.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Mazdak (Moslem) Alipour is a visionary Kamancheh player\, vocalist\, and composer\, with a distinguished career spanning over 30 years. Born into a musical lineage in Khorramabad\, Iran\, he began his journey under the tutelage of his father\, the legendary maestro Faraj Alipour.    Mazdak is a celebrated artist on the global stage\, earning prestigious recognition for innovation in Persian music:    • Global Music Awards: Silver and Bronze Medals   • Silk Road Project: Featured soloist conducted by Academy Award-winning Tan Dun   • UNESCO: Distinguished performer at “Mozart Day” in France   • UCLA: specialized performances and cultural initiatives   Based in Los Angeles\, Mazdak’s mastery of musical fusion blends ancient Persian heritage with contemporary global genres. With over 20 albums and the publication of “Taal” (a seminal book on Lori music)\, he continues to influence the world music scene through film scoring\, international tours\, and advanced music education.    Learn more at MazdakAlipour.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Eman Hashimi\, one of today’s most sought-after Afghan percussionists\, is widely recognized as the future of Afghan tabla. Born into the celebrated Hashimi musical family of Kabul’s historic Kharabat quarter\, he is the son of legendary maestro Ustad Toryalai Hashimi\, a pioneer of Afghan tabla.    A child prodigy\, Eman gave his first concert at age nine alongside his father\, later studying under world-renowned Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, with whom he became one of the youngest tabla players to perform in duet. His artistry bridges Afghan classical and folk traditions with the Punjab Gharana of tabla.    Eman has performed at the Kennedy Center\, San Francisco World Music Festival and beyond\, collaborating across genres. He also serves as founder and Director of Percussion at PACA\, preserving and promoting Afghanistan’s musical heritage at a time when music is banned in its homeland.    Learn more at emanhashimi.com URL:https://oacc.cc/event/campuanamericanstory/ LOCATION:Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, 388 9th St. #290\, Oakland\, CA\, 94607\, United States CATEGORIES:Featured,Past Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oacc.cc/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/NEW-FLYER.png ORGANIZER;CN="Oakland Asian Cultural Center":MAILTO:programs@oacc.cc END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250201T110000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250201T160000 DTSTAMP:20260806T165124 CREATED:20250107T012150Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250306T184213Z UID:20651-1738407600-1738425600@oacc.cc SUMMARY:Lunar New Year x Black History Month 2025: Celebrating Asian & African-American Solidarity DESCRIPTION:A concert of Indian\, Persian and Afghan classical music featuring Arjun K. Verma\, Pezhham Akhavass\, Mazdak Alipour\, and Eman Hashimi   — \n \n \n \n Friday\, September 11\, 20267-9 pm$40 General Admission  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Interweaving brings together four virtuoso musicians from the Indian\, Persian\, and Afghan musical traditions in a rare meeting of some of Asia’s richest classical musical cultures. Featuring sitar\, kamancheh\, tabla\, daf\, and tombak\, this performance explores the deep historical connections and living dialogue between these traditions through improvisation\, virtuosity\, and collaborative creation. The very name of the Indian sitar is derived from Persian seh-tar (“three strings”)\, hinting at the centuries of artistic exchange between the Indian subcontinent and Persia.    Building on this shared heritage\, the musicians weave together intricate rhythmic cycles\, expressive melodic modes\, and spontaneous improvisation\, revealing both the common threads and distinctive voices of these musical lineages. Interweaving invites audiences into a shared sonic landscape where rhythm\, melody\, and improvisation transcend geography\, honoring centuries of cultural tradition and exchange\, while creating something entirely new in the moment.    Interweaving is presented by the Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, made possible through the Musical Grant Program\, administered by InterMusic SF\, and supported by the Clarence E. Heller Charitable Foundation and the Hewlett Foundation.    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Reserve Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT THE ARTISTS \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Arjun K. Verma is both a tradition-bearer and innovator in the world of North Indian Classical music. With over three decades of performance experience at venues including the United Nations\, the Fillmore\, and Prague Castle\, Arjun has emerged with a unique voice on the sitar – both within the tradition of North Indian Classical Music\, and through innovative cross-genre collaborations.    Hailed by the New York Times as a “fine sitarist\,” Arjun shares his cultural heritage in a manner that is fresh and modern\, while maintaining high standards of traditional integrity. His work is influenced by his upbringing as an Indian Classical musician in the West\, trained by Maestro Ali Akbar Khan. Arjun’s performance repertoire has stretched the limits of the sitar\, and his recording and composing work encompasses TV\, opera\, film\, and video games. He has recorded with artists including the London Symphony Orchestra\, Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, Sri Alam Khan\, and Grammy-winning jazz arranger and pianist John Beasley.    Learn more at arjun-verma.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Pezhham Akhavass is an accomplished musician\, percussionist\, multi-instrumentalist\, educator\, music director\, producer\, Voting Member of the Recording Academy (GRAMMY)\, and instructor known for his mastery of the tombak (Persian goblet drum)\, and daf (Persian frame drum). His exceptional talent and unique rhythmic approach have distinguished him as one of the most notable musicians of his generation.    Born in Iran in 1980\, Pezhham embarked on his musical journey under the guidance of his renowned father\, Mostafa Akhavass. He began studying tombak at age five with the esteemed Ostad Naser Farhanghfar\, later continuing with Mr. Saeid Roudbary. He holds BA and MA degrees in music from San Francisco State University\, and began studying tabla with Ustad Zakir Hussain in 2011.    Pezhham’s career includes performances at prestigious festivals and concert halls across Iran and internationally with renowned vocalist Shahram Nazeri\, and collaborations with Ostad Hossein Alizadeh and Ustad Zakir Hussain.    Learn more at www.pezhham.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Mazdak (Moslem) Alipour is a visionary Kamancheh player\, vocalist\, and composer\, with a distinguished career spanning over 30 years. Born into a musical lineage in Khorramabad\, Iran\, he began his journey under the tutelage of his father\, the legendary maestro Faraj Alipour.    Mazdak is a celebrated artist on the global stage\, earning prestigious recognition for innovation in Persian music:    • Global Music Awards: Silver and Bronze Medals   • Silk Road Project: Featured soloist conducted by Academy Award-winning Tan Dun   • UNESCO: Distinguished performer at “Mozart Day” in France   • UCLA: specialized performances and cultural initiatives   Based in Los Angeles\, Mazdak’s mastery of musical fusion blends ancient Persian heritage with contemporary global genres. With over 20 albums and the publication of “Taal” (a seminal book on Lori music)\, he continues to influence the world music scene through film scoring\, international tours\, and advanced music education.    Learn more at MazdakAlipour.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Eman Hashimi\, one of today’s most sought-after Afghan percussionists\, is widely recognized as the future of Afghan tabla. Born into the celebrated Hashimi musical family of Kabul’s historic Kharabat quarter\, he is the son of legendary maestro Ustad Toryalai Hashimi\, a pioneer of Afghan tabla.    A child prodigy\, Eman gave his first concert at age nine alongside his father\, later studying under world-renowned Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, with whom he became one of the youngest tabla players to perform in duet. His artistry bridges Afghan classical and folk traditions with the Punjab Gharana of tabla.    Eman has performed at the Kennedy Center\, San Francisco World Music Festival and beyond\, collaborating across genres. He also serves as founder and Director of Percussion at PACA\, preserving and promoting Afghanistan’s musical heritage at a time when music is banned in its homeland.    Learn more at emanhashimi.com URL:https://oacc.cc/event/lnybhm2025/ LOCATION:Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, 388 9th St. #290\, Oakland\, CA\, 94607\, United States CATEGORIES:Featured,Past Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oacc.cc/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/LNY-x-BHM-2025-thumbnail-2.png ORGANIZER;CN="Oakland Asian Cultural Center":MAILTO:programs@oacc.cc END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250130T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250501T170000 DTSTAMP:20260806T165124 CREATED:20250127T230357Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250904T211915Z UID:20701-1738238400-1746118800@oacc.cc SUMMARY:From Chinatown to West Oakland: Community Portraits of Healing DESCRIPTION:A concert of Indian\, Persian and Afghan classical music featuring Arjun K. Verma\, Pezhham Akhavass\, Mazdak Alipour\, and Eman Hashimi   — \n \n \n \n Friday\, September 11\, 20267-9 pm$40 General Admission  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Interweaving brings together four virtuoso musicians from the Indian\, Persian\, and Afghan musical traditions in a rare meeting of some of Asia’s richest classical musical cultures. Featuring sitar\, kamancheh\, tabla\, daf\, and tombak\, this performance explores the deep historical connections and living dialogue between these traditions through improvisation\, virtuosity\, and collaborative creation. The very name of the Indian sitar is derived from Persian seh-tar (“three strings”)\, hinting at the centuries of artistic exchange between the Indian subcontinent and Persia.    Building on this shared heritage\, the musicians weave together intricate rhythmic cycles\, expressive melodic modes\, and spontaneous improvisation\, revealing both the common threads and distinctive voices of these musical lineages. Interweaving invites audiences into a shared sonic landscape where rhythm\, melody\, and improvisation transcend geography\, honoring centuries of cultural tradition and exchange\, while creating something entirely new in the moment.    Interweaving is presented by the Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, made possible through the Musical Grant Program\, administered by InterMusic SF\, and supported by the Clarence E. Heller Charitable Foundation and the Hewlett Foundation.    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Reserve Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT THE ARTISTS \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Arjun K. Verma is both a tradition-bearer and innovator in the world of North Indian Classical music. With over three decades of performance experience at venues including the United Nations\, the Fillmore\, and Prague Castle\, Arjun has emerged with a unique voice on the sitar – both within the tradition of North Indian Classical Music\, and through innovative cross-genre collaborations.    Hailed by the New York Times as a “fine sitarist\,” Arjun shares his cultural heritage in a manner that is fresh and modern\, while maintaining high standards of traditional integrity. His work is influenced by his upbringing as an Indian Classical musician in the West\, trained by Maestro Ali Akbar Khan. Arjun’s performance repertoire has stretched the limits of the sitar\, and his recording and composing work encompasses TV\, opera\, film\, and video games. He has recorded with artists including the London Symphony Orchestra\, Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, Sri Alam Khan\, and Grammy-winning jazz arranger and pianist John Beasley.    Learn more at arjun-verma.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Pezhham Akhavass is an accomplished musician\, percussionist\, multi-instrumentalist\, educator\, music director\, producer\, Voting Member of the Recording Academy (GRAMMY)\, and instructor known for his mastery of the tombak (Persian goblet drum)\, and daf (Persian frame drum). His exceptional talent and unique rhythmic approach have distinguished him as one of the most notable musicians of his generation.    Born in Iran in 1980\, Pezhham embarked on his musical journey under the guidance of his renowned father\, Mostafa Akhavass. He began studying tombak at age five with the esteemed Ostad Naser Farhanghfar\, later continuing with Mr. Saeid Roudbary. He holds BA and MA degrees in music from San Francisco State University\, and began studying tabla with Ustad Zakir Hussain in 2011.    Pezhham’s career includes performances at prestigious festivals and concert halls across Iran and internationally with renowned vocalist Shahram Nazeri\, and collaborations with Ostad Hossein Alizadeh and Ustad Zakir Hussain.    Learn more at www.pezhham.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Mazdak (Moslem) Alipour is a visionary Kamancheh player\, vocalist\, and composer\, with a distinguished career spanning over 30 years. Born into a musical lineage in Khorramabad\, Iran\, he began his journey under the tutelage of his father\, the legendary maestro Faraj Alipour.    Mazdak is a celebrated artist on the global stage\, earning prestigious recognition for innovation in Persian music:    • Global Music Awards: Silver and Bronze Medals   • Silk Road Project: Featured soloist conducted by Academy Award-winning Tan Dun   • UNESCO: Distinguished performer at “Mozart Day” in France   • UCLA: specialized performances and cultural initiatives   Based in Los Angeles\, Mazdak’s mastery of musical fusion blends ancient Persian heritage with contemporary global genres. With over 20 albums and the publication of “Taal” (a seminal book on Lori music)\, he continues to influence the world music scene through film scoring\, international tours\, and advanced music education.    Learn more at MazdakAlipour.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Eman Hashimi\, one of today’s most sought-after Afghan percussionists\, is widely recognized as the future of Afghan tabla. Born into the celebrated Hashimi musical family of Kabul’s historic Kharabat quarter\, he is the son of legendary maestro Ustad Toryalai Hashimi\, a pioneer of Afghan tabla.    A child prodigy\, Eman gave his first concert at age nine alongside his father\, later studying under world-renowned Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, with whom he became one of the youngest tabla players to perform in duet. His artistry bridges Afghan classical and folk traditions with the Punjab Gharana of tabla.    Eman has performed at the Kennedy Center\, San Francisco World Music Festival and beyond\, collaborating across genres. He also serves as founder and Director of Percussion at PACA\, preserving and promoting Afghanistan’s musical heritage at a time when music is banned in its homeland.    Learn more at emanhashimi.com URL:https://oacc.cc/event/from-chinatown-to-west-oakland-community-portraits-of-healing/ LOCATION:Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, 388 9th St. #290\, Oakland\, CA\, 94607\, United States CATEGORIES:Past Exhibitions ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oacc.cc/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Screen-Shot-2025-03-31-at-4.01.18-PM.png ORGANIZER;CN="Oakland Asian Cultural Center":MAILTO:programs@oacc.cc END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250118T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250118T143000 DTSTAMP:20260806T165124 CREATED:20241204T204954Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250306T184235Z UID:20520-1737205200-1737210600@oacc.cc SUMMARY:The March Fong Eu Story: An Authorized Biography of an Unauthorized Woman. Book Talk with Author Tim Vandehey and Editor Pattie Fong. DESCRIPTION:A concert of Indian\, Persian and Afghan classical music featuring Arjun K. Verma\, Pezhham Akhavass\, Mazdak Alipour\, and Eman Hashimi   — \n \n \n \n Friday\, September 11\, 20267-9 pm$40 General Admission  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Interweaving brings together four virtuoso musicians from the Indian\, Persian\, and Afghan musical traditions in a rare meeting of some of Asia’s richest classical musical cultures. Featuring sitar\, kamancheh\, tabla\, daf\, and tombak\, this performance explores the deep historical connections and living dialogue between these traditions through improvisation\, virtuosity\, and collaborative creation. The very name of the Indian sitar is derived from Persian seh-tar (“three strings”)\, hinting at the centuries of artistic exchange between the Indian subcontinent and Persia.    Building on this shared heritage\, the musicians weave together intricate rhythmic cycles\, expressive melodic modes\, and spontaneous improvisation\, revealing both the common threads and distinctive voices of these musical lineages. Interweaving invites audiences into a shared sonic landscape where rhythm\, melody\, and improvisation transcend geography\, honoring centuries of cultural tradition and exchange\, while creating something entirely new in the moment.    Interweaving is presented by the Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, made possible through the Musical Grant Program\, administered by InterMusic SF\, and supported by the Clarence E. Heller Charitable Foundation and the Hewlett Foundation.    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Reserve Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT THE ARTISTS \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Arjun K. Verma is both a tradition-bearer and innovator in the world of North Indian Classical music. With over three decades of performance experience at venues including the United Nations\, the Fillmore\, and Prague Castle\, Arjun has emerged with a unique voice on the sitar – both within the tradition of North Indian Classical Music\, and through innovative cross-genre collaborations.    Hailed by the New York Times as a “fine sitarist\,” Arjun shares his cultural heritage in a manner that is fresh and modern\, while maintaining high standards of traditional integrity. His work is influenced by his upbringing as an Indian Classical musician in the West\, trained by Maestro Ali Akbar Khan. Arjun’s performance repertoire has stretched the limits of the sitar\, and his recording and composing work encompasses TV\, opera\, film\, and video games. He has recorded with artists including the London Symphony Orchestra\, Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, Sri Alam Khan\, and Grammy-winning jazz arranger and pianist John Beasley.    Learn more at arjun-verma.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Pezhham Akhavass is an accomplished musician\, percussionist\, multi-instrumentalist\, educator\, music director\, producer\, Voting Member of the Recording Academy (GRAMMY)\, and instructor known for his mastery of the tombak (Persian goblet drum)\, and daf (Persian frame drum). His exceptional talent and unique rhythmic approach have distinguished him as one of the most notable musicians of his generation.    Born in Iran in 1980\, Pezhham embarked on his musical journey under the guidance of his renowned father\, Mostafa Akhavass. He began studying tombak at age five with the esteemed Ostad Naser Farhanghfar\, later continuing with Mr. Saeid Roudbary. He holds BA and MA degrees in music from San Francisco State University\, and began studying tabla with Ustad Zakir Hussain in 2011.    Pezhham’s career includes performances at prestigious festivals and concert halls across Iran and internationally with renowned vocalist Shahram Nazeri\, and collaborations with Ostad Hossein Alizadeh and Ustad Zakir Hussain.    Learn more at www.pezhham.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Mazdak (Moslem) Alipour is a visionary Kamancheh player\, vocalist\, and composer\, with a distinguished career spanning over 30 years. Born into a musical lineage in Khorramabad\, Iran\, he began his journey under the tutelage of his father\, the legendary maestro Faraj Alipour.    Mazdak is a celebrated artist on the global stage\, earning prestigious recognition for innovation in Persian music:    • Global Music Awards: Silver and Bronze Medals   • Silk Road Project: Featured soloist conducted by Academy Award-winning Tan Dun   • UNESCO: Distinguished performer at “Mozart Day” in France   • UCLA: specialized performances and cultural initiatives   Based in Los Angeles\, Mazdak’s mastery of musical fusion blends ancient Persian heritage with contemporary global genres. With over 20 albums and the publication of “Taal” (a seminal book on Lori music)\, he continues to influence the world music scene through film scoring\, international tours\, and advanced music education.    Learn more at MazdakAlipour.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Eman Hashimi\, one of today’s most sought-after Afghan percussionists\, is widely recognized as the future of Afghan tabla. Born into the celebrated Hashimi musical family of Kabul’s historic Kharabat quarter\, he is the son of legendary maestro Ustad Toryalai Hashimi\, a pioneer of Afghan tabla.    A child prodigy\, Eman gave his first concert at age nine alongside his father\, later studying under world-renowned Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, with whom he became one of the youngest tabla players to perform in duet. His artistry bridges Afghan classical and folk traditions with the Punjab Gharana of tabla.    Eman has performed at the Kennedy Center\, San Francisco World Music Festival and beyond\, collaborating across genres. He also serves as founder and Director of Percussion at PACA\, preserving and promoting Afghanistan’s musical heritage at a time when music is banned in its homeland.    Learn more at emanhashimi.com URL:https://oacc.cc/event/themarchfongeustory/ LOCATION:Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, 388 9th St. #290\, Oakland\, CA\, 94607\, United States CATEGORIES:Featured,Past Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oacc.cc/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/march-fong-eu-thumbnail-2.png ORGANIZER;CN="Oakland Asian Cultural Center":MAILTO:programs@oacc.cc END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250112T123000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250112T163000 DTSTAMP:20260806T165124 CREATED:20241211T205434Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250107T001256Z UID:20553-1736685000-1736699400@oacc.cc SUMMARY:SOLD OUT: Celebrating Our HeART-filled Heritage: Sounds of Greater Khorasan — Afghan and Tajik Poetry and Music DESCRIPTION:A concert of Indian\, Persian and Afghan classical music featuring Arjun K. Verma\, Pezhham Akhavass\, Mazdak Alipour\, and Eman Hashimi   — \n \n \n \n Friday\, September 11\, 20267-9 pm$40 General Admission  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Interweaving brings together four virtuoso musicians from the Indian\, Persian\, and Afghan musical traditions in a rare meeting of some of Asia’s richest classical musical cultures. Featuring sitar\, kamancheh\, tabla\, daf\, and tombak\, this performance explores the deep historical connections and living dialogue between these traditions through improvisation\, virtuosity\, and collaborative creation. The very name of the Indian sitar is derived from Persian seh-tar (“three strings”)\, hinting at the centuries of artistic exchange between the Indian subcontinent and Persia.    Building on this shared heritage\, the musicians weave together intricate rhythmic cycles\, expressive melodic modes\, and spontaneous improvisation\, revealing both the common threads and distinctive voices of these musical lineages. Interweaving invites audiences into a shared sonic landscape where rhythm\, melody\, and improvisation transcend geography\, honoring centuries of cultural tradition and exchange\, while creating something entirely new in the moment.    Interweaving is presented by the Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, made possible through the Musical Grant Program\, administered by InterMusic SF\, and supported by the Clarence E. Heller Charitable Foundation and the Hewlett Foundation.    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Reserve Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT THE ARTISTS \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Arjun K. Verma is both a tradition-bearer and innovator in the world of North Indian Classical music. With over three decades of performance experience at venues including the United Nations\, the Fillmore\, and Prague Castle\, Arjun has emerged with a unique voice on the sitar – both within the tradition of North Indian Classical Music\, and through innovative cross-genre collaborations.    Hailed by the New York Times as a “fine sitarist\,” Arjun shares his cultural heritage in a manner that is fresh and modern\, while maintaining high standards of traditional integrity. His work is influenced by his upbringing as an Indian Classical musician in the West\, trained by Maestro Ali Akbar Khan. Arjun’s performance repertoire has stretched the limits of the sitar\, and his recording and composing work encompasses TV\, opera\, film\, and video games. He has recorded with artists including the London Symphony Orchestra\, Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, Sri Alam Khan\, and Grammy-winning jazz arranger and pianist John Beasley.    Learn more at arjun-verma.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Pezhham Akhavass is an accomplished musician\, percussionist\, multi-instrumentalist\, educator\, music director\, producer\, Voting Member of the Recording Academy (GRAMMY)\, and instructor known for his mastery of the tombak (Persian goblet drum)\, and daf (Persian frame drum). His exceptional talent and unique rhythmic approach have distinguished him as one of the most notable musicians of his generation.    Born in Iran in 1980\, Pezhham embarked on his musical journey under the guidance of his renowned father\, Mostafa Akhavass. He began studying tombak at age five with the esteemed Ostad Naser Farhanghfar\, later continuing with Mr. Saeid Roudbary. He holds BA and MA degrees in music from San Francisco State University\, and began studying tabla with Ustad Zakir Hussain in 2011.    Pezhham’s career includes performances at prestigious festivals and concert halls across Iran and internationally with renowned vocalist Shahram Nazeri\, and collaborations with Ostad Hossein Alizadeh and Ustad Zakir Hussain.    Learn more at www.pezhham.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Mazdak (Moslem) Alipour is a visionary Kamancheh player\, vocalist\, and composer\, with a distinguished career spanning over 30 years. Born into a musical lineage in Khorramabad\, Iran\, he began his journey under the tutelage of his father\, the legendary maestro Faraj Alipour.    Mazdak is a celebrated artist on the global stage\, earning prestigious recognition for innovation in Persian music:    • Global Music Awards: Silver and Bronze Medals   • Silk Road Project: Featured soloist conducted by Academy Award-winning Tan Dun   • UNESCO: Distinguished performer at “Mozart Day” in France   • UCLA: specialized performances and cultural initiatives   Based in Los Angeles\, Mazdak’s mastery of musical fusion blends ancient Persian heritage with contemporary global genres. With over 20 albums and the publication of “Taal” (a seminal book on Lori music)\, he continues to influence the world music scene through film scoring\, international tours\, and advanced music education.    Learn more at MazdakAlipour.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Eman Hashimi\, one of today’s most sought-after Afghan percussionists\, is widely recognized as the future of Afghan tabla. Born into the celebrated Hashimi musical family of Kabul’s historic Kharabat quarter\, he is the son of legendary maestro Ustad Toryalai Hashimi\, a pioneer of Afghan tabla.    A child prodigy\, Eman gave his first concert at age nine alongside his father\, later studying under world-renowned Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, with whom he became one of the youngest tabla players to perform in duet. His artistry bridges Afghan classical and folk traditions with the Punjab Gharana of tabla.    Eman has performed at the Kennedy Center\, San Francisco World Music Festival and beyond\, collaborating across genres. He also serves as founder and Director of Percussion at PACA\, preserving and promoting Afghanistan’s musical heritage at a time when music is banned in its homeland.    Learn more at emanhashimi.com URL:https://oacc.cc/event/cohh-sounds-of-greater-khorasan/ LOCATION:Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, 388 9th St. #290\, Oakland\, CA\, 94607\, United States CATEGORIES:Featured,Upcoming Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oacc.cc/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/thumbnail-2.png ORGANIZER;CN="Oakland Asian Cultural Center":MAILTO:programs@oacc.cc END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20241114T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250118T170000 DTSTAMP:20260806T165124 CREATED:20241112T181725Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250107T184419Z UID:20475-1731585600-1737219600@oacc.cc SUMMARY:Celebrating Asian American Artists from Creative Growth Exhibition DESCRIPTION:A concert of Indian\, Persian and Afghan classical music featuring Arjun K. Verma\, Pezhham Akhavass\, Mazdak Alipour\, and Eman Hashimi   — \n \n \n \n Friday\, September 11\, 20267-9 pm$40 General Admission  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Interweaving brings together four virtuoso musicians from the Indian\, Persian\, and Afghan musical traditions in a rare meeting of some of Asia’s richest classical musical cultures. Featuring sitar\, kamancheh\, tabla\, daf\, and tombak\, this performance explores the deep historical connections and living dialogue between these traditions through improvisation\, virtuosity\, and collaborative creation. The very name of the Indian sitar is derived from Persian seh-tar (“three strings”)\, hinting at the centuries of artistic exchange between the Indian subcontinent and Persia.    Building on this shared heritage\, the musicians weave together intricate rhythmic cycles\, expressive melodic modes\, and spontaneous improvisation\, revealing both the common threads and distinctive voices of these musical lineages. Interweaving invites audiences into a shared sonic landscape where rhythm\, melody\, and improvisation transcend geography\, honoring centuries of cultural tradition and exchange\, while creating something entirely new in the moment.    Interweaving is presented by the Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, made possible through the Musical Grant Program\, administered by InterMusic SF\, and supported by the Clarence E. Heller Charitable Foundation and the Hewlett Foundation.    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Reserve Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT THE ARTISTS \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Arjun K. Verma is both a tradition-bearer and innovator in the world of North Indian Classical music. With over three decades of performance experience at venues including the United Nations\, the Fillmore\, and Prague Castle\, Arjun has emerged with a unique voice on the sitar – both within the tradition of North Indian Classical Music\, and through innovative cross-genre collaborations.    Hailed by the New York Times as a “fine sitarist\,” Arjun shares his cultural heritage in a manner that is fresh and modern\, while maintaining high standards of traditional integrity. His work is influenced by his upbringing as an Indian Classical musician in the West\, trained by Maestro Ali Akbar Khan. Arjun’s performance repertoire has stretched the limits of the sitar\, and his recording and composing work encompasses TV\, opera\, film\, and video games. He has recorded with artists including the London Symphony Orchestra\, Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, Sri Alam Khan\, and Grammy-winning jazz arranger and pianist John Beasley.    Learn more at arjun-verma.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Pezhham Akhavass is an accomplished musician\, percussionist\, multi-instrumentalist\, educator\, music director\, producer\, Voting Member of the Recording Academy (GRAMMY)\, and instructor known for his mastery of the tombak (Persian goblet drum)\, and daf (Persian frame drum). His exceptional talent and unique rhythmic approach have distinguished him as one of the most notable musicians of his generation.    Born in Iran in 1980\, Pezhham embarked on his musical journey under the guidance of his renowned father\, Mostafa Akhavass. He began studying tombak at age five with the esteemed Ostad Naser Farhanghfar\, later continuing with Mr. Saeid Roudbary. He holds BA and MA degrees in music from San Francisco State University\, and began studying tabla with Ustad Zakir Hussain in 2011.    Pezhham’s career includes performances at prestigious festivals and concert halls across Iran and internationally with renowned vocalist Shahram Nazeri\, and collaborations with Ostad Hossein Alizadeh and Ustad Zakir Hussain.    Learn more at www.pezhham.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Mazdak (Moslem) Alipour is a visionary Kamancheh player\, vocalist\, and composer\, with a distinguished career spanning over 30 years. Born into a musical lineage in Khorramabad\, Iran\, he began his journey under the tutelage of his father\, the legendary maestro Faraj Alipour.    Mazdak is a celebrated artist on the global stage\, earning prestigious recognition for innovation in Persian music:    • Global Music Awards: Silver and Bronze Medals   • Silk Road Project: Featured soloist conducted by Academy Award-winning Tan Dun   • UNESCO: Distinguished performer at “Mozart Day” in France   • UCLA: specialized performances and cultural initiatives   Based in Los Angeles\, Mazdak’s mastery of musical fusion blends ancient Persian heritage with contemporary global genres. With over 20 albums and the publication of “Taal” (a seminal book on Lori music)\, he continues to influence the world music scene through film scoring\, international tours\, and advanced music education.    Learn more at MazdakAlipour.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Eman Hashimi\, one of today’s most sought-after Afghan percussionists\, is widely recognized as the future of Afghan tabla. Born into the celebrated Hashimi musical family of Kabul’s historic Kharabat quarter\, he is the son of legendary maestro Ustad Toryalai Hashimi\, a pioneer of Afghan tabla.    A child prodigy\, Eman gave his first concert at age nine alongside his father\, later studying under world-renowned Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, with whom he became one of the youngest tabla players to perform in duet. His artistry bridges Afghan classical and folk traditions with the Punjab Gharana of tabla.    Eman has performed at the Kennedy Center\, San Francisco World Music Festival and beyond\, collaborating across genres. He also serves as founder and Director of Percussion at PACA\, preserving and promoting Afghanistan’s musical heritage at a time when music is banned in its homeland.    Learn more at emanhashimi.com URL:https://oacc.cc/event/celebratingasianamericanartistsfromcreativegrowth/ LOCATION:Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, 388 9th St. #290\, Oakland\, CA\, 94607\, United States CATEGORIES:Current Exhibitions ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oacc.cc/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/creative-growth-exhibit-flyer.png ORGANIZER;CN="Oakland Asian Cultural Center":MAILTO:programs@oacc.cc END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20241109T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20241109T150000 DTSTAMP:20260806T165124 CREATED:20241104T185535Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241117T175322Z UID:20438-1731157200-1731164400@oacc.cc SUMMARY:POSTPONED: Visible Mending For Stains & Patches DESCRIPTION:A concert of Indian\, Persian and Afghan classical music featuring Arjun K. Verma\, Pezhham Akhavass\, Mazdak Alipour\, and Eman Hashimi   — \n \n \n \n Friday\, September 11\, 20267-9 pm$40 General Admission  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Interweaving brings together four virtuoso musicians from the Indian\, Persian\, and Afghan musical traditions in a rare meeting of some of Asia’s richest classical musical cultures. Featuring sitar\, kamancheh\, tabla\, daf\, and tombak\, this performance explores the deep historical connections and living dialogue between these traditions through improvisation\, virtuosity\, and collaborative creation. The very name of the Indian sitar is derived from Persian seh-tar (“three strings”)\, hinting at the centuries of artistic exchange between the Indian subcontinent and Persia.    Building on this shared heritage\, the musicians weave together intricate rhythmic cycles\, expressive melodic modes\, and spontaneous improvisation\, revealing both the common threads and distinctive voices of these musical lineages. Interweaving invites audiences into a shared sonic landscape where rhythm\, melody\, and improvisation transcend geography\, honoring centuries of cultural tradition and exchange\, while creating something entirely new in the moment.    Interweaving is presented by the Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, made possible through the Musical Grant Program\, administered by InterMusic SF\, and supported by the Clarence E. Heller Charitable Foundation and the Hewlett Foundation.    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Reserve Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT THE ARTISTS \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Arjun K. Verma is both a tradition-bearer and innovator in the world of North Indian Classical music. With over three decades of performance experience at venues including the United Nations\, the Fillmore\, and Prague Castle\, Arjun has emerged with a unique voice on the sitar – both within the tradition of North Indian Classical Music\, and through innovative cross-genre collaborations.    Hailed by the New York Times as a “fine sitarist\,” Arjun shares his cultural heritage in a manner that is fresh and modern\, while maintaining high standards of traditional integrity. His work is influenced by his upbringing as an Indian Classical musician in the West\, trained by Maestro Ali Akbar Khan. Arjun’s performance repertoire has stretched the limits of the sitar\, and his recording and composing work encompasses TV\, opera\, film\, and video games. He has recorded with artists including the London Symphony Orchestra\, Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, Sri Alam Khan\, and Grammy-winning jazz arranger and pianist John Beasley.    Learn more at arjun-verma.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Pezhham Akhavass is an accomplished musician\, percussionist\, multi-instrumentalist\, educator\, music director\, producer\, Voting Member of the Recording Academy (GRAMMY)\, and instructor known for his mastery of the tombak (Persian goblet drum)\, and daf (Persian frame drum). His exceptional talent and unique rhythmic approach have distinguished him as one of the most notable musicians of his generation.    Born in Iran in 1980\, Pezhham embarked on his musical journey under the guidance of his renowned father\, Mostafa Akhavass. He began studying tombak at age five with the esteemed Ostad Naser Farhanghfar\, later continuing with Mr. Saeid Roudbary. He holds BA and MA degrees in music from San Francisco State University\, and began studying tabla with Ustad Zakir Hussain in 2011.    Pezhham’s career includes performances at prestigious festivals and concert halls across Iran and internationally with renowned vocalist Shahram Nazeri\, and collaborations with Ostad Hossein Alizadeh and Ustad Zakir Hussain.    Learn more at www.pezhham.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Mazdak (Moslem) Alipour is a visionary Kamancheh player\, vocalist\, and composer\, with a distinguished career spanning over 30 years. Born into a musical lineage in Khorramabad\, Iran\, he began his journey under the tutelage of his father\, the legendary maestro Faraj Alipour.    Mazdak is a celebrated artist on the global stage\, earning prestigious recognition for innovation in Persian music:    • Global Music Awards: Silver and Bronze Medals   • Silk Road Project: Featured soloist conducted by Academy Award-winning Tan Dun   • UNESCO: Distinguished performer at “Mozart Day” in France   • UCLA: specialized performances and cultural initiatives   Based in Los Angeles\, Mazdak’s mastery of musical fusion blends ancient Persian heritage with contemporary global genres. With over 20 albums and the publication of “Taal” (a seminal book on Lori music)\, he continues to influence the world music scene through film scoring\, international tours\, and advanced music education.    Learn more at MazdakAlipour.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Eman Hashimi\, one of today’s most sought-after Afghan percussionists\, is widely recognized as the future of Afghan tabla. Born into the celebrated Hashimi musical family of Kabul’s historic Kharabat quarter\, he is the son of legendary maestro Ustad Toryalai Hashimi\, a pioneer of Afghan tabla.    A child prodigy\, Eman gave his first concert at age nine alongside his father\, later studying under world-renowned Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, with whom he became one of the youngest tabla players to perform in duet. His artistry bridges Afghan classical and folk traditions with the Punjab Gharana of tabla.    Eman has performed at the Kennedy Center\, San Francisco World Music Festival and beyond\, collaborating across genres. He also serves as founder and Director of Percussion at PACA\, preserving and promoting Afghanistan’s musical heritage at a time when music is banned in its homeland.    Learn more at emanhashimi.com URL:https://oacc.cc/event/visiblemending/ LOCATION:Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, 388 9th St. #290\, Oakland\, CA\, 94607\, United States CATEGORIES:Upcoming Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oacc.cc/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/postponed-2.png ORGANIZER;CN="Oakland Asian Cultural Center":MAILTO:programs@oacc.cc END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20241012 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20241109 DTSTAMP:20260806T165124 CREATED:20241001T225318Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241002T001600Z UID:20042-1728691200-1731110399@oacc.cc SUMMARY:OACC Co-Presents: Kearny Street Workshop's "APAture 2024: Return" DESCRIPTION:A concert of Indian\, Persian and Afghan classical music featuring Arjun K. Verma\, Pezhham Akhavass\, Mazdak Alipour\, and Eman Hashimi   — \n \n \n \n Friday\, September 11\, 20267-9 pm$40 General Admission  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Interweaving brings together four virtuoso musicians from the Indian\, Persian\, and Afghan musical traditions in a rare meeting of some of Asia’s richest classical musical cultures. Featuring sitar\, kamancheh\, tabla\, daf\, and tombak\, this performance explores the deep historical connections and living dialogue between these traditions through improvisation\, virtuosity\, and collaborative creation. The very name of the Indian sitar is derived from Persian seh-tar (“three strings”)\, hinting at the centuries of artistic exchange between the Indian subcontinent and Persia.    Building on this shared heritage\, the musicians weave together intricate rhythmic cycles\, expressive melodic modes\, and spontaneous improvisation\, revealing both the common threads and distinctive voices of these musical lineages. Interweaving invites audiences into a shared sonic landscape where rhythm\, melody\, and improvisation transcend geography\, honoring centuries of cultural tradition and exchange\, while creating something entirely new in the moment.    Interweaving is presented by the Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, made possible through the Musical Grant Program\, administered by InterMusic SF\, and supported by the Clarence E. Heller Charitable Foundation and the Hewlett Foundation.    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Reserve Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT THE ARTISTS \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Arjun K. Verma is both a tradition-bearer and innovator in the world of North Indian Classical music. With over three decades of performance experience at venues including the United Nations\, the Fillmore\, and Prague Castle\, Arjun has emerged with a unique voice on the sitar – both within the tradition of North Indian Classical Music\, and through innovative cross-genre collaborations.    Hailed by the New York Times as a “fine sitarist\,” Arjun shares his cultural heritage in a manner that is fresh and modern\, while maintaining high standards of traditional integrity. His work is influenced by his upbringing as an Indian Classical musician in the West\, trained by Maestro Ali Akbar Khan. Arjun’s performance repertoire has stretched the limits of the sitar\, and his recording and composing work encompasses TV\, opera\, film\, and video games. He has recorded with artists including the London Symphony Orchestra\, Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, Sri Alam Khan\, and Grammy-winning jazz arranger and pianist John Beasley.    Learn more at arjun-verma.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Pezhham Akhavass is an accomplished musician\, percussionist\, multi-instrumentalist\, educator\, music director\, producer\, Voting Member of the Recording Academy (GRAMMY)\, and instructor known for his mastery of the tombak (Persian goblet drum)\, and daf (Persian frame drum). His exceptional talent and unique rhythmic approach have distinguished him as one of the most notable musicians of his generation.    Born in Iran in 1980\, Pezhham embarked on his musical journey under the guidance of his renowned father\, Mostafa Akhavass. He began studying tombak at age five with the esteemed Ostad Naser Farhanghfar\, later continuing with Mr. Saeid Roudbary. He holds BA and MA degrees in music from San Francisco State University\, and began studying tabla with Ustad Zakir Hussain in 2011.    Pezhham’s career includes performances at prestigious festivals and concert halls across Iran and internationally with renowned vocalist Shahram Nazeri\, and collaborations with Ostad Hossein Alizadeh and Ustad Zakir Hussain.    Learn more at www.pezhham.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Mazdak (Moslem) Alipour is a visionary Kamancheh player\, vocalist\, and composer\, with a distinguished career spanning over 30 years. Born into a musical lineage in Khorramabad\, Iran\, he began his journey under the tutelage of his father\, the legendary maestro Faraj Alipour.    Mazdak is a celebrated artist on the global stage\, earning prestigious recognition for innovation in Persian music:    • Global Music Awards: Silver and Bronze Medals   • Silk Road Project: Featured soloist conducted by Academy Award-winning Tan Dun   • UNESCO: Distinguished performer at “Mozart Day” in France   • UCLA: specialized performances and cultural initiatives   Based in Los Angeles\, Mazdak’s mastery of musical fusion blends ancient Persian heritage with contemporary global genres. With over 20 albums and the publication of “Taal” (a seminal book on Lori music)\, he continues to influence the world music scene through film scoring\, international tours\, and advanced music education.    Learn more at MazdakAlipour.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Eman Hashimi\, one of today’s most sought-after Afghan percussionists\, is widely recognized as the future of Afghan tabla. Born into the celebrated Hashimi musical family of Kabul’s historic Kharabat quarter\, he is the son of legendary maestro Ustad Toryalai Hashimi\, a pioneer of Afghan tabla.    A child prodigy\, Eman gave his first concert at age nine alongside his father\, later studying under world-renowned Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, with whom he became one of the youngest tabla players to perform in duet. His artistry bridges Afghan classical and folk traditions with the Punjab Gharana of tabla.    Eman has performed at the Kennedy Center\, San Francisco World Music Festival and beyond\, collaborating across genres. He also serves as founder and Director of Percussion at PACA\, preserving and promoting Afghanistan’s musical heritage at a time when music is banned in its homeland.    Learn more at emanhashimi.com URL:https://oacc.cc/event/apature2024/ LOCATION:CA CATEGORIES:Upcoming Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oacc.cc/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/apature-2024.png ORGANIZER;CN="Kearny Street Workshop":MAILTO:info@kearnystreet.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20241011T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20241011T200000 DTSTAMP:20260806T165124 CREATED:20240926T180105Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241014T170419Z UID:20070-1728671400-1728676800@oacc.cc SUMMARY:"Background Artist: The Life and Work of Tyrus Wong." A Book Reading and Conversation with Author Karen Fang DESCRIPTION:A concert of Indian\, Persian and Afghan classical music featuring Arjun K. Verma\, Pezhham Akhavass\, Mazdak Alipour\, and Eman Hashimi   — \n \n \n \n Friday\, September 11\, 20267-9 pm$40 General Admission  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Interweaving brings together four virtuoso musicians from the Indian\, Persian\, and Afghan musical traditions in a rare meeting of some of Asia’s richest classical musical cultures. Featuring sitar\, kamancheh\, tabla\, daf\, and tombak\, this performance explores the deep historical connections and living dialogue between these traditions through improvisation\, virtuosity\, and collaborative creation. The very name of the Indian sitar is derived from Persian seh-tar (“three strings”)\, hinting at the centuries of artistic exchange between the Indian subcontinent and Persia.    Building on this shared heritage\, the musicians weave together intricate rhythmic cycles\, expressive melodic modes\, and spontaneous improvisation\, revealing both the common threads and distinctive voices of these musical lineages. Interweaving invites audiences into a shared sonic landscape where rhythm\, melody\, and improvisation transcend geography\, honoring centuries of cultural tradition and exchange\, while creating something entirely new in the moment.    Interweaving is presented by the Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, made possible through the Musical Grant Program\, administered by InterMusic SF\, and supported by the Clarence E. Heller Charitable Foundation and the Hewlett Foundation.    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Reserve Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT THE ARTISTS \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Arjun K. Verma is both a tradition-bearer and innovator in the world of North Indian Classical music. With over three decades of performance experience at venues including the United Nations\, the Fillmore\, and Prague Castle\, Arjun has emerged with a unique voice on the sitar – both within the tradition of North Indian Classical Music\, and through innovative cross-genre collaborations.    Hailed by the New York Times as a “fine sitarist\,” Arjun shares his cultural heritage in a manner that is fresh and modern\, while maintaining high standards of traditional integrity. His work is influenced by his upbringing as an Indian Classical musician in the West\, trained by Maestro Ali Akbar Khan. Arjun’s performance repertoire has stretched the limits of the sitar\, and his recording and composing work encompasses TV\, opera\, film\, and video games. He has recorded with artists including the London Symphony Orchestra\, Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, Sri Alam Khan\, and Grammy-winning jazz arranger and pianist John Beasley.    Learn more at arjun-verma.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Pezhham Akhavass is an accomplished musician\, percussionist\, multi-instrumentalist\, educator\, music director\, producer\, Voting Member of the Recording Academy (GRAMMY)\, and instructor known for his mastery of the tombak (Persian goblet drum)\, and daf (Persian frame drum). His exceptional talent and unique rhythmic approach have distinguished him as one of the most notable musicians of his generation.    Born in Iran in 1980\, Pezhham embarked on his musical journey under the guidance of his renowned father\, Mostafa Akhavass. He began studying tombak at age five with the esteemed Ostad Naser Farhanghfar\, later continuing with Mr. Saeid Roudbary. He holds BA and MA degrees in music from San Francisco State University\, and began studying tabla with Ustad Zakir Hussain in 2011.    Pezhham’s career includes performances at prestigious festivals and concert halls across Iran and internationally with renowned vocalist Shahram Nazeri\, and collaborations with Ostad Hossein Alizadeh and Ustad Zakir Hussain.    Learn more at www.pezhham.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Mazdak (Moslem) Alipour is a visionary Kamancheh player\, vocalist\, and composer\, with a distinguished career spanning over 30 years. Born into a musical lineage in Khorramabad\, Iran\, he began his journey under the tutelage of his father\, the legendary maestro Faraj Alipour.    Mazdak is a celebrated artist on the global stage\, earning prestigious recognition for innovation in Persian music:    • Global Music Awards: Silver and Bronze Medals   • Silk Road Project: Featured soloist conducted by Academy Award-winning Tan Dun   • UNESCO: Distinguished performer at “Mozart Day” in France   • UCLA: specialized performances and cultural initiatives   Based in Los Angeles\, Mazdak’s mastery of musical fusion blends ancient Persian heritage with contemporary global genres. With over 20 albums and the publication of “Taal” (a seminal book on Lori music)\, he continues to influence the world music scene through film scoring\, international tours\, and advanced music education.    Learn more at MazdakAlipour.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Eman Hashimi\, one of today’s most sought-after Afghan percussionists\, is widely recognized as the future of Afghan tabla. Born into the celebrated Hashimi musical family of Kabul’s historic Kharabat quarter\, he is the son of legendary maestro Ustad Toryalai Hashimi\, a pioneer of Afghan tabla.    A child prodigy\, Eman gave his first concert at age nine alongside his father\, later studying under world-renowned Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, with whom he became one of the youngest tabla players to perform in duet. His artistry bridges Afghan classical and folk traditions with the Punjab Gharana of tabla.    Eman has performed at the Kennedy Center\, San Francisco World Music Festival and beyond\, collaborating across genres. He also serves as founder and Director of Percussion at PACA\, preserving and promoting Afghanistan’s musical heritage at a time when music is banned in its homeland.    Learn more at emanhashimi.com URL:https://oacc.cc/event/backgroundartist/ LOCATION:Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, 388 9th St. #290\, Oakland\, CA\, 94607\, United States CATEGORIES:Past Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oacc.cc/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/updated-flyer.png ORGANIZER;CN="Oakland Asian Cultural Center":MAILTO:programs@oacc.cc END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240929T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240929T150000 DTSTAMP:20260806T165124 CREATED:20240823T160615Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241014T170459Z UID:19636-1727614800-1727622000@oacc.cc SUMMARY:Speed Weave Loom Mending DESCRIPTION:A concert of Indian\, Persian and Afghan classical music featuring Arjun K. Verma\, Pezhham Akhavass\, Mazdak Alipour\, and Eman Hashimi   — \n \n \n \n Friday\, September 11\, 20267-9 pm$40 General Admission  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Interweaving brings together four virtuoso musicians from the Indian\, Persian\, and Afghan musical traditions in a rare meeting of some of Asia’s richest classical musical cultures. Featuring sitar\, kamancheh\, tabla\, daf\, and tombak\, this performance explores the deep historical connections and living dialogue between these traditions through improvisation\, virtuosity\, and collaborative creation. The very name of the Indian sitar is derived from Persian seh-tar (“three strings”)\, hinting at the centuries of artistic exchange between the Indian subcontinent and Persia.    Building on this shared heritage\, the musicians weave together intricate rhythmic cycles\, expressive melodic modes\, and spontaneous improvisation\, revealing both the common threads and distinctive voices of these musical lineages. Interweaving invites audiences into a shared sonic landscape where rhythm\, melody\, and improvisation transcend geography\, honoring centuries of cultural tradition and exchange\, while creating something entirely new in the moment.    Interweaving is presented by the Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, made possible through the Musical Grant Program\, administered by InterMusic SF\, and supported by the Clarence E. Heller Charitable Foundation and the Hewlett Foundation.    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Reserve Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT THE ARTISTS \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Arjun K. Verma is both a tradition-bearer and innovator in the world of North Indian Classical music. With over three decades of performance experience at venues including the United Nations\, the Fillmore\, and Prague Castle\, Arjun has emerged with a unique voice on the sitar – both within the tradition of North Indian Classical Music\, and through innovative cross-genre collaborations.    Hailed by the New York Times as a “fine sitarist\,” Arjun shares his cultural heritage in a manner that is fresh and modern\, while maintaining high standards of traditional integrity. His work is influenced by his upbringing as an Indian Classical musician in the West\, trained by Maestro Ali Akbar Khan. Arjun’s performance repertoire has stretched the limits of the sitar\, and his recording and composing work encompasses TV\, opera\, film\, and video games. He has recorded with artists including the London Symphony Orchestra\, Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, Sri Alam Khan\, and Grammy-winning jazz arranger and pianist John Beasley.    Learn more at arjun-verma.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Pezhham Akhavass is an accomplished musician\, percussionist\, multi-instrumentalist\, educator\, music director\, producer\, Voting Member of the Recording Academy (GRAMMY)\, and instructor known for his mastery of the tombak (Persian goblet drum)\, and daf (Persian frame drum). His exceptional talent and unique rhythmic approach have distinguished him as one of the most notable musicians of his generation.    Born in Iran in 1980\, Pezhham embarked on his musical journey under the guidance of his renowned father\, Mostafa Akhavass. He began studying tombak at age five with the esteemed Ostad Naser Farhanghfar\, later continuing with Mr. Saeid Roudbary. He holds BA and MA degrees in music from San Francisco State University\, and began studying tabla with Ustad Zakir Hussain in 2011.    Pezhham’s career includes performances at prestigious festivals and concert halls across Iran and internationally with renowned vocalist Shahram Nazeri\, and collaborations with Ostad Hossein Alizadeh and Ustad Zakir Hussain.    Learn more at www.pezhham.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Mazdak (Moslem) Alipour is a visionary Kamancheh player\, vocalist\, and composer\, with a distinguished career spanning over 30 years. Born into a musical lineage in Khorramabad\, Iran\, he began his journey under the tutelage of his father\, the legendary maestro Faraj Alipour.    Mazdak is a celebrated artist on the global stage\, earning prestigious recognition for innovation in Persian music:    • Global Music Awards: Silver and Bronze Medals   • Silk Road Project: Featured soloist conducted by Academy Award-winning Tan Dun   • UNESCO: Distinguished performer at “Mozart Day” in France   • UCLA: specialized performances and cultural initiatives   Based in Los Angeles\, Mazdak’s mastery of musical fusion blends ancient Persian heritage with contemporary global genres. With over 20 albums and the publication of “Taal” (a seminal book on Lori music)\, he continues to influence the world music scene through film scoring\, international tours\, and advanced music education.    Learn more at MazdakAlipour.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Eman Hashimi\, one of today’s most sought-after Afghan percussionists\, is widely recognized as the future of Afghan tabla. Born into the celebrated Hashimi musical family of Kabul’s historic Kharabat quarter\, he is the son of legendary maestro Ustad Toryalai Hashimi\, a pioneer of Afghan tabla.    A child prodigy\, Eman gave his first concert at age nine alongside his father\, later studying under world-renowned Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, with whom he became one of the youngest tabla players to perform in duet. His artistry bridges Afghan classical and folk traditions with the Punjab Gharana of tabla.    Eman has performed at the Kennedy Center\, San Francisco World Music Festival and beyond\, collaborating across genres. He also serves as founder and Director of Percussion at PACA\, preserving and promoting Afghanistan’s musical heritage at a time when music is banned in its homeland.    Learn more at emanhashimi.com URL:https://oacc.cc/event/speedweaveloommending/ LOCATION:Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, 388 9th St. #290\, Oakland\, CA\, 94607\, United States CATEGORIES:Past Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oacc.cc/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/ENGLISH.png ORGANIZER;CN="Oakland Asian Cultural Center":MAILTO:programs@oacc.cc END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240927T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240927T200000 DTSTAMP:20260806T165124 CREATED:20240830T175910Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241014T170605Z UID:19720-1727460000-1727467200@oacc.cc SUMMARY:A Short Film Screening and Book Reading Exploring Cambodian & Queer Identity with Jean-Baptiste Phou DESCRIPTION:A concert of Indian\, Persian and Afghan classical music featuring Arjun K. Verma\, Pezhham Akhavass\, Mazdak Alipour\, and Eman Hashimi   — \n \n \n \n Friday\, September 11\, 20267-9 pm$40 General Admission  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Interweaving brings together four virtuoso musicians from the Indian\, Persian\, and Afghan musical traditions in a rare meeting of some of Asia’s richest classical musical cultures. Featuring sitar\, kamancheh\, tabla\, daf\, and tombak\, this performance explores the deep historical connections and living dialogue between these traditions through improvisation\, virtuosity\, and collaborative creation. The very name of the Indian sitar is derived from Persian seh-tar (“three strings”)\, hinting at the centuries of artistic exchange between the Indian subcontinent and Persia.    Building on this shared heritage\, the musicians weave together intricate rhythmic cycles\, expressive melodic modes\, and spontaneous improvisation\, revealing both the common threads and distinctive voices of these musical lineages. Interweaving invites audiences into a shared sonic landscape where rhythm\, melody\, and improvisation transcend geography\, honoring centuries of cultural tradition and exchange\, while creating something entirely new in the moment.    Interweaving is presented by the Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, made possible through the Musical Grant Program\, administered by InterMusic SF\, and supported by the Clarence E. Heller Charitable Foundation and the Hewlett Foundation.    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Reserve Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT THE ARTISTS \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Arjun K. Verma is both a tradition-bearer and innovator in the world of North Indian Classical music. With over three decades of performance experience at venues including the United Nations\, the Fillmore\, and Prague Castle\, Arjun has emerged with a unique voice on the sitar – both within the tradition of North Indian Classical Music\, and through innovative cross-genre collaborations.    Hailed by the New York Times as a “fine sitarist\,” Arjun shares his cultural heritage in a manner that is fresh and modern\, while maintaining high standards of traditional integrity. His work is influenced by his upbringing as an Indian Classical musician in the West\, trained by Maestro Ali Akbar Khan. Arjun’s performance repertoire has stretched the limits of the sitar\, and his recording and composing work encompasses TV\, opera\, film\, and video games. He has recorded with artists including the London Symphony Orchestra\, Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, Sri Alam Khan\, and Grammy-winning jazz arranger and pianist John Beasley.    Learn more at arjun-verma.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Pezhham Akhavass is an accomplished musician\, percussionist\, multi-instrumentalist\, educator\, music director\, producer\, Voting Member of the Recording Academy (GRAMMY)\, and instructor known for his mastery of the tombak (Persian goblet drum)\, and daf (Persian frame drum). His exceptional talent and unique rhythmic approach have distinguished him as one of the most notable musicians of his generation.    Born in Iran in 1980\, Pezhham embarked on his musical journey under the guidance of his renowned father\, Mostafa Akhavass. He began studying tombak at age five with the esteemed Ostad Naser Farhanghfar\, later continuing with Mr. Saeid Roudbary. He holds BA and MA degrees in music from San Francisco State University\, and began studying tabla with Ustad Zakir Hussain in 2011.    Pezhham’s career includes performances at prestigious festivals and concert halls across Iran and internationally with renowned vocalist Shahram Nazeri\, and collaborations with Ostad Hossein Alizadeh and Ustad Zakir Hussain.    Learn more at www.pezhham.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Mazdak (Moslem) Alipour is a visionary Kamancheh player\, vocalist\, and composer\, with a distinguished career spanning over 30 years. Born into a musical lineage in Khorramabad\, Iran\, he began his journey under the tutelage of his father\, the legendary maestro Faraj Alipour.    Mazdak is a celebrated artist on the global stage\, earning prestigious recognition for innovation in Persian music:    • Global Music Awards: Silver and Bronze Medals   • Silk Road Project: Featured soloist conducted by Academy Award-winning Tan Dun   • UNESCO: Distinguished performer at “Mozart Day” in France   • UCLA: specialized performances and cultural initiatives   Based in Los Angeles\, Mazdak’s mastery of musical fusion blends ancient Persian heritage with contemporary global genres. With over 20 albums and the publication of “Taal” (a seminal book on Lori music)\, he continues to influence the world music scene through film scoring\, international tours\, and advanced music education.    Learn more at MazdakAlipour.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Eman Hashimi\, one of today’s most sought-after Afghan percussionists\, is widely recognized as the future of Afghan tabla. Born into the celebrated Hashimi musical family of Kabul’s historic Kharabat quarter\, he is the son of legendary maestro Ustad Toryalai Hashimi\, a pioneer of Afghan tabla.    A child prodigy\, Eman gave his first concert at age nine alongside his father\, later studying under world-renowned Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, with whom he became one of the youngest tabla players to perform in duet. His artistry bridges Afghan classical and folk traditions with the Punjab Gharana of tabla.    Eman has performed at the Kennedy Center\, San Francisco World Music Festival and beyond\, collaborating across genres. He also serves as founder and Director of Percussion at PACA\, preserving and promoting Afghanistan’s musical heritage at a time when music is banned in its homeland.    Learn more at emanhashimi.com URL:https://oacc.cc/event/mymotherstongue-comingoutofmyskin/ LOCATION:Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, 388 9th St. #290\, Oakland\, CA\, 94607\, United States CATEGORIES:Past Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oacc.cc/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/thumbnail-14.png ORGANIZER;CN="Oakland Asian Cultural Center":MAILTO:programs@oacc.cc END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240922T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240922T143000 DTSTAMP:20260806T165124 CREATED:20240801T180527Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240922T220545Z UID:19346-1727010000-1727015400@oacc.cc SUMMARY:"Simone" Book Release & Reading DESCRIPTION:A concert of Indian\, Persian and Afghan classical music featuring Arjun K. Verma\, Pezhham Akhavass\, Mazdak Alipour\, and Eman Hashimi   — \n \n \n \n Friday\, September 11\, 20267-9 pm$40 General Admission  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Interweaving brings together four virtuoso musicians from the Indian\, Persian\, and Afghan musical traditions in a rare meeting of some of Asia’s richest classical musical cultures. Featuring sitar\, kamancheh\, tabla\, daf\, and tombak\, this performance explores the deep historical connections and living dialogue between these traditions through improvisation\, virtuosity\, and collaborative creation. The very name of the Indian sitar is derived from Persian seh-tar (“three strings”)\, hinting at the centuries of artistic exchange between the Indian subcontinent and Persia.    Building on this shared heritage\, the musicians weave together intricate rhythmic cycles\, expressive melodic modes\, and spontaneous improvisation\, revealing both the common threads and distinctive voices of these musical lineages. Interweaving invites audiences into a shared sonic landscape where rhythm\, melody\, and improvisation transcend geography\, honoring centuries of cultural tradition and exchange\, while creating something entirely new in the moment.    Interweaving is presented by the Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, made possible through the Musical Grant Program\, administered by InterMusic SF\, and supported by the Clarence E. Heller Charitable Foundation and the Hewlett Foundation.    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Reserve Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT THE ARTISTS \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Arjun K. Verma is both a tradition-bearer and innovator in the world of North Indian Classical music. With over three decades of performance experience at venues including the United Nations\, the Fillmore\, and Prague Castle\, Arjun has emerged with a unique voice on the sitar – both within the tradition of North Indian Classical Music\, and through innovative cross-genre collaborations.    Hailed by the New York Times as a “fine sitarist\,” Arjun shares his cultural heritage in a manner that is fresh and modern\, while maintaining high standards of traditional integrity. His work is influenced by his upbringing as an Indian Classical musician in the West\, trained by Maestro Ali Akbar Khan. Arjun’s performance repertoire has stretched the limits of the sitar\, and his recording and composing work encompasses TV\, opera\, film\, and video games. He has recorded with artists including the London Symphony Orchestra\, Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, Sri Alam Khan\, and Grammy-winning jazz arranger and pianist John Beasley.    Learn more at arjun-verma.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Pezhham Akhavass is an accomplished musician\, percussionist\, multi-instrumentalist\, educator\, music director\, producer\, Voting Member of the Recording Academy (GRAMMY)\, and instructor known for his mastery of the tombak (Persian goblet drum)\, and daf (Persian frame drum). His exceptional talent and unique rhythmic approach have distinguished him as one of the most notable musicians of his generation.    Born in Iran in 1980\, Pezhham embarked on his musical journey under the guidance of his renowned father\, Mostafa Akhavass. He began studying tombak at age five with the esteemed Ostad Naser Farhanghfar\, later continuing with Mr. Saeid Roudbary. He holds BA and MA degrees in music from San Francisco State University\, and began studying tabla with Ustad Zakir Hussain in 2011.    Pezhham’s career includes performances at prestigious festivals and concert halls across Iran and internationally with renowned vocalist Shahram Nazeri\, and collaborations with Ostad Hossein Alizadeh and Ustad Zakir Hussain.    Learn more at www.pezhham.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Mazdak (Moslem) Alipour is a visionary Kamancheh player\, vocalist\, and composer\, with a distinguished career spanning over 30 years. Born into a musical lineage in Khorramabad\, Iran\, he began his journey under the tutelage of his father\, the legendary maestro Faraj Alipour.    Mazdak is a celebrated artist on the global stage\, earning prestigious recognition for innovation in Persian music:    • Global Music Awards: Silver and Bronze Medals   • Silk Road Project: Featured soloist conducted by Academy Award-winning Tan Dun   • UNESCO: Distinguished performer at “Mozart Day” in France   • UCLA: specialized performances and cultural initiatives   Based in Los Angeles\, Mazdak’s mastery of musical fusion blends ancient Persian heritage with contemporary global genres. With over 20 albums and the publication of “Taal” (a seminal book on Lori music)\, he continues to influence the world music scene through film scoring\, international tours\, and advanced music education.    Learn more at MazdakAlipour.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Eman Hashimi\, one of today’s most sought-after Afghan percussionists\, is widely recognized as the future of Afghan tabla. Born into the celebrated Hashimi musical family of Kabul’s historic Kharabat quarter\, he is the son of legendary maestro Ustad Toryalai Hashimi\, a pioneer of Afghan tabla.    A child prodigy\, Eman gave his first concert at age nine alongside his father\, later studying under world-renowned Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, with whom he became one of the youngest tabla players to perform in duet. His artistry bridges Afghan classical and folk traditions with the Punjab Gharana of tabla.    Eman has performed at the Kennedy Center\, San Francisco World Music Festival and beyond\, collaborating across genres. He also serves as founder and Director of Percussion at PACA\, preserving and promoting Afghanistan’s musical heritage at a time when music is banned in its homeland.    Learn more at emanhashimi.com URL:https://oacc.cc/event/simone/ LOCATION:Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, 388 9th St. #290\, Oakland\, CA\, 94607\, United States CATEGORIES:Featured,Past Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oacc.cc/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/SIMONE-NEW-PRICE.png ORGANIZER;CN="Oakland Asian Cultural Center":MAILTO:programs@oacc.cc END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240918T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20241109T170000 DTSTAMP:20260806T165125 CREATED:20240819T204131Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240922T220659Z UID:19431-1726660800-1731171600@oacc.cc SUMMARY:AAPI Voters Have Power Exhibition DESCRIPTION:A concert of Indian\, Persian and Afghan classical music featuring Arjun K. Verma\, Pezhham Akhavass\, Mazdak Alipour\, and Eman Hashimi   — \n \n \n \n Friday\, September 11\, 20267-9 pm$40 General Admission  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Interweaving brings together four virtuoso musicians from the Indian\, Persian\, and Afghan musical traditions in a rare meeting of some of Asia’s richest classical musical cultures. Featuring sitar\, kamancheh\, tabla\, daf\, and tombak\, this performance explores the deep historical connections and living dialogue between these traditions through improvisation\, virtuosity\, and collaborative creation. The very name of the Indian sitar is derived from Persian seh-tar (“three strings”)\, hinting at the centuries of artistic exchange between the Indian subcontinent and Persia.    Building on this shared heritage\, the musicians weave together intricate rhythmic cycles\, expressive melodic modes\, and spontaneous improvisation\, revealing both the common threads and distinctive voices of these musical lineages. Interweaving invites audiences into a shared sonic landscape where rhythm\, melody\, and improvisation transcend geography\, honoring centuries of cultural tradition and exchange\, while creating something entirely new in the moment.    Interweaving is presented by the Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, made possible through the Musical Grant Program\, administered by InterMusic SF\, and supported by the Clarence E. Heller Charitable Foundation and the Hewlett Foundation.    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Reserve Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT THE ARTISTS \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Arjun K. Verma is both a tradition-bearer and innovator in the world of North Indian Classical music. With over three decades of performance experience at venues including the United Nations\, the Fillmore\, and Prague Castle\, Arjun has emerged with a unique voice on the sitar – both within the tradition of North Indian Classical Music\, and through innovative cross-genre collaborations.    Hailed by the New York Times as a “fine sitarist\,” Arjun shares his cultural heritage in a manner that is fresh and modern\, while maintaining high standards of traditional integrity. His work is influenced by his upbringing as an Indian Classical musician in the West\, trained by Maestro Ali Akbar Khan. Arjun’s performance repertoire has stretched the limits of the sitar\, and his recording and composing work encompasses TV\, opera\, film\, and video games. He has recorded with artists including the London Symphony Orchestra\, Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, Sri Alam Khan\, and Grammy-winning jazz arranger and pianist John Beasley.    Learn more at arjun-verma.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Pezhham Akhavass is an accomplished musician\, percussionist\, multi-instrumentalist\, educator\, music director\, producer\, Voting Member of the Recording Academy (GRAMMY)\, and instructor known for his mastery of the tombak (Persian goblet drum)\, and daf (Persian frame drum). His exceptional talent and unique rhythmic approach have distinguished him as one of the most notable musicians of his generation.    Born in Iran in 1980\, Pezhham embarked on his musical journey under the guidance of his renowned father\, Mostafa Akhavass. He began studying tombak at age five with the esteemed Ostad Naser Farhanghfar\, later continuing with Mr. Saeid Roudbary. He holds BA and MA degrees in music from San Francisco State University\, and began studying tabla with Ustad Zakir Hussain in 2011.    Pezhham’s career includes performances at prestigious festivals and concert halls across Iran and internationally with renowned vocalist Shahram Nazeri\, and collaborations with Ostad Hossein Alizadeh and Ustad Zakir Hussain.    Learn more at www.pezhham.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Mazdak (Moslem) Alipour is a visionary Kamancheh player\, vocalist\, and composer\, with a distinguished career spanning over 30 years. Born into a musical lineage in Khorramabad\, Iran\, he began his journey under the tutelage of his father\, the legendary maestro Faraj Alipour.    Mazdak is a celebrated artist on the global stage\, earning prestigious recognition for innovation in Persian music:    • Global Music Awards: Silver and Bronze Medals   • Silk Road Project: Featured soloist conducted by Academy Award-winning Tan Dun   • UNESCO: Distinguished performer at “Mozart Day” in France   • UCLA: specialized performances and cultural initiatives   Based in Los Angeles\, Mazdak’s mastery of musical fusion blends ancient Persian heritage with contemporary global genres. With over 20 albums and the publication of “Taal” (a seminal book on Lori music)\, he continues to influence the world music scene through film scoring\, international tours\, and advanced music education.    Learn more at MazdakAlipour.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Eman Hashimi\, one of today’s most sought-after Afghan percussionists\, is widely recognized as the future of Afghan tabla. Born into the celebrated Hashimi musical family of Kabul’s historic Kharabat quarter\, he is the son of legendary maestro Ustad Toryalai Hashimi\, a pioneer of Afghan tabla.    A child prodigy\, Eman gave his first concert at age nine alongside his father\, later studying under world-renowned Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, with whom he became one of the youngest tabla players to perform in duet. His artistry bridges Afghan classical and folk traditions with the Punjab Gharana of tabla.    Eman has performed at the Kennedy Center\, San Francisco World Music Festival and beyond\, collaborating across genres. He also serves as founder and Director of Percussion at PACA\, preserving and promoting Afghanistan’s musical heritage at a time when music is banned in its homeland.    Learn more at emanhashimi.com URL:https://oacc.cc/event/aapivotershavepower/ LOCATION:Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, 388 9th St. #290\, Oakland\, CA\, 94607\, United States CATEGORIES:Current Exhibitions ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oacc.cc/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/thumbnail-10.png ORGANIZER;CN="Oakland Asian Cultural Center":MAILTO:programs@oacc.cc END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240907T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240907T163000 DTSTAMP:20260806T165125 CREATED:20240814T235924Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240908T000830Z UID:19383-1725714000-1725726600@oacc.cc SUMMARY:Celebrating Our HeART-filled Heritage: Hālau O Keikiali’i in Performance DESCRIPTION:A concert of Indian\, Persian and Afghan classical music featuring Arjun K. Verma\, Pezhham Akhavass\, Mazdak Alipour\, and Eman Hashimi   — \n \n \n \n Friday\, September 11\, 20267-9 pm$40 General Admission  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Interweaving brings together four virtuoso musicians from the Indian\, Persian\, and Afghan musical traditions in a rare meeting of some of Asia’s richest classical musical cultures. Featuring sitar\, kamancheh\, tabla\, daf\, and tombak\, this performance explores the deep historical connections and living dialogue between these traditions through improvisation\, virtuosity\, and collaborative creation. The very name of the Indian sitar is derived from Persian seh-tar (“three strings”)\, hinting at the centuries of artistic exchange between the Indian subcontinent and Persia.    Building on this shared heritage\, the musicians weave together intricate rhythmic cycles\, expressive melodic modes\, and spontaneous improvisation\, revealing both the common threads and distinctive voices of these musical lineages. Interweaving invites audiences into a shared sonic landscape where rhythm\, melody\, and improvisation transcend geography\, honoring centuries of cultural tradition and exchange\, while creating something entirely new in the moment.    Interweaving is presented by the Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, made possible through the Musical Grant Program\, administered by InterMusic SF\, and supported by the Clarence E. Heller Charitable Foundation and the Hewlett Foundation.    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Reserve Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT THE ARTISTS \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Arjun K. Verma is both a tradition-bearer and innovator in the world of North Indian Classical music. With over three decades of performance experience at venues including the United Nations\, the Fillmore\, and Prague Castle\, Arjun has emerged with a unique voice on the sitar – both within the tradition of North Indian Classical Music\, and through innovative cross-genre collaborations.    Hailed by the New York Times as a “fine sitarist\,” Arjun shares his cultural heritage in a manner that is fresh and modern\, while maintaining high standards of traditional integrity. His work is influenced by his upbringing as an Indian Classical musician in the West\, trained by Maestro Ali Akbar Khan. Arjun’s performance repertoire has stretched the limits of the sitar\, and his recording and composing work encompasses TV\, opera\, film\, and video games. He has recorded with artists including the London Symphony Orchestra\, Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, Sri Alam Khan\, and Grammy-winning jazz arranger and pianist John Beasley.    Learn more at arjun-verma.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Pezhham Akhavass is an accomplished musician\, percussionist\, multi-instrumentalist\, educator\, music director\, producer\, Voting Member of the Recording Academy (GRAMMY)\, and instructor known for his mastery of the tombak (Persian goblet drum)\, and daf (Persian frame drum). His exceptional talent and unique rhythmic approach have distinguished him as one of the most notable musicians of his generation.    Born in Iran in 1980\, Pezhham embarked on his musical journey under the guidance of his renowned father\, Mostafa Akhavass. He began studying tombak at age five with the esteemed Ostad Naser Farhanghfar\, later continuing with Mr. Saeid Roudbary. He holds BA and MA degrees in music from San Francisco State University\, and began studying tabla with Ustad Zakir Hussain in 2011.    Pezhham’s career includes performances at prestigious festivals and concert halls across Iran and internationally with renowned vocalist Shahram Nazeri\, and collaborations with Ostad Hossein Alizadeh and Ustad Zakir Hussain.    Learn more at www.pezhham.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Mazdak (Moslem) Alipour is a visionary Kamancheh player\, vocalist\, and composer\, with a distinguished career spanning over 30 years. Born into a musical lineage in Khorramabad\, Iran\, he began his journey under the tutelage of his father\, the legendary maestro Faraj Alipour.    Mazdak is a celebrated artist on the global stage\, earning prestigious recognition for innovation in Persian music:    • Global Music Awards: Silver and Bronze Medals   • Silk Road Project: Featured soloist conducted by Academy Award-winning Tan Dun   • UNESCO: Distinguished performer at “Mozart Day” in France   • UCLA: specialized performances and cultural initiatives   Based in Los Angeles\, Mazdak’s mastery of musical fusion blends ancient Persian heritage with contemporary global genres. With over 20 albums and the publication of “Taal” (a seminal book on Lori music)\, he continues to influence the world music scene through film scoring\, international tours\, and advanced music education.    Learn more at MazdakAlipour.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Eman Hashimi\, one of today’s most sought-after Afghan percussionists\, is widely recognized as the future of Afghan tabla. Born into the celebrated Hashimi musical family of Kabul’s historic Kharabat quarter\, he is the son of legendary maestro Ustad Toryalai Hashimi\, a pioneer of Afghan tabla.    A child prodigy\, Eman gave his first concert at age nine alongside his father\, later studying under world-renowned Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, with whom he became one of the youngest tabla players to perform in duet. His artistry bridges Afghan classical and folk traditions with the Punjab Gharana of tabla.    Eman has performed at the Kennedy Center\, San Francisco World Music Festival and beyond\, collaborating across genres. He also serves as founder and Director of Percussion at PACA\, preserving and promoting Afghanistan’s musical heritage at a time when music is banned in its homeland.    Learn more at emanhashimi.com URL:https://oacc.cc/event/cohhhalauokeikialii/ LOCATION:Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, 388 9th St. #290\, Oakland\, CA\, 94607\, United States CATEGORIES:Featured,Past Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oacc.cc/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/decorative-thumbnail.png ORGANIZER;CN="Oakland Asian Cultural Center":MAILTO:programs@oacc.cc END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240803T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240803T213000 DTSTAMP:20260806T165125 CREATED:20240710T002737Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240815T214223Z UID:19212-1722704400-1722720600@oacc.cc SUMMARY:BomBay to the Bay: a Garba Dance Festival DESCRIPTION:A concert of Indian\, Persian and Afghan classical music featuring Arjun K. Verma\, Pezhham Akhavass\, Mazdak Alipour\, and Eman Hashimi   — \n \n \n \n Friday\, September 11\, 20267-9 pm$40 General Admission  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Interweaving brings together four virtuoso musicians from the Indian\, Persian\, and Afghan musical traditions in a rare meeting of some of Asia’s richest classical musical cultures. Featuring sitar\, kamancheh\, tabla\, daf\, and tombak\, this performance explores the deep historical connections and living dialogue between these traditions through improvisation\, virtuosity\, and collaborative creation. The very name of the Indian sitar is derived from Persian seh-tar (“three strings”)\, hinting at the centuries of artistic exchange between the Indian subcontinent and Persia.    Building on this shared heritage\, the musicians weave together intricate rhythmic cycles\, expressive melodic modes\, and spontaneous improvisation\, revealing both the common threads and distinctive voices of these musical lineages. Interweaving invites audiences into a shared sonic landscape where rhythm\, melody\, and improvisation transcend geography\, honoring centuries of cultural tradition and exchange\, while creating something entirely new in the moment.    Interweaving is presented by the Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, made possible through the Musical Grant Program\, administered by InterMusic SF\, and supported by the Clarence E. Heller Charitable Foundation and the Hewlett Foundation.    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Reserve Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT THE ARTISTS \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Arjun K. Verma is both a tradition-bearer and innovator in the world of North Indian Classical music. With over three decades of performance experience at venues including the United Nations\, the Fillmore\, and Prague Castle\, Arjun has emerged with a unique voice on the sitar – both within the tradition of North Indian Classical Music\, and through innovative cross-genre collaborations.    Hailed by the New York Times as a “fine sitarist\,” Arjun shares his cultural heritage in a manner that is fresh and modern\, while maintaining high standards of traditional integrity. His work is influenced by his upbringing as an Indian Classical musician in the West\, trained by Maestro Ali Akbar Khan. Arjun’s performance repertoire has stretched the limits of the sitar\, and his recording and composing work encompasses TV\, opera\, film\, and video games. He has recorded with artists including the London Symphony Orchestra\, Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, Sri Alam Khan\, and Grammy-winning jazz arranger and pianist John Beasley.    Learn more at arjun-verma.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Pezhham Akhavass is an accomplished musician\, percussionist\, multi-instrumentalist\, educator\, music director\, producer\, Voting Member of the Recording Academy (GRAMMY)\, and instructor known for his mastery of the tombak (Persian goblet drum)\, and daf (Persian frame drum). His exceptional talent and unique rhythmic approach have distinguished him as one of the most notable musicians of his generation.    Born in Iran in 1980\, Pezhham embarked on his musical journey under the guidance of his renowned father\, Mostafa Akhavass. He began studying tombak at age five with the esteemed Ostad Naser Farhanghfar\, later continuing with Mr. Saeid Roudbary. He holds BA and MA degrees in music from San Francisco State University\, and began studying tabla with Ustad Zakir Hussain in 2011.    Pezhham’s career includes performances at prestigious festivals and concert halls across Iran and internationally with renowned vocalist Shahram Nazeri\, and collaborations with Ostad Hossein Alizadeh and Ustad Zakir Hussain.    Learn more at www.pezhham.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Mazdak (Moslem) Alipour is a visionary Kamancheh player\, vocalist\, and composer\, with a distinguished career spanning over 30 years. Born into a musical lineage in Khorramabad\, Iran\, he began his journey under the tutelage of his father\, the legendary maestro Faraj Alipour.    Mazdak is a celebrated artist on the global stage\, earning prestigious recognition for innovation in Persian music:    • Global Music Awards: Silver and Bronze Medals   • Silk Road Project: Featured soloist conducted by Academy Award-winning Tan Dun   • UNESCO: Distinguished performer at “Mozart Day” in France   • UCLA: specialized performances and cultural initiatives   Based in Los Angeles\, Mazdak’s mastery of musical fusion blends ancient Persian heritage with contemporary global genres. With over 20 albums and the publication of “Taal” (a seminal book on Lori music)\, he continues to influence the world music scene through film scoring\, international tours\, and advanced music education.    Learn more at MazdakAlipour.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Eman Hashimi\, one of today’s most sought-after Afghan percussionists\, is widely recognized as the future of Afghan tabla. Born into the celebrated Hashimi musical family of Kabul’s historic Kharabat quarter\, he is the son of legendary maestro Ustad Toryalai Hashimi\, a pioneer of Afghan tabla.    A child prodigy\, Eman gave his first concert at age nine alongside his father\, later studying under world-renowned Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, with whom he became one of the youngest tabla players to perform in duet. His artistry bridges Afghan classical and folk traditions with the Punjab Gharana of tabla.    Eman has performed at the Kennedy Center\, San Francisco World Music Festival and beyond\, collaborating across genres. He also serves as founder and Director of Percussion at PACA\, preserving and promoting Afghanistan’s musical heritage at a time when music is banned in its homeland.    Learn more at emanhashimi.com URL:https://oacc.cc/event/bombaytothebay/ LOCATION:Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, 388 9th St. #290\, Oakland\, CA\, 94607\, United States CATEGORIES:Featured,Past Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oacc.cc/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/thumbnail-1.png ORGANIZER;CN="Oakland Asian Cultural Center":MAILTO:programs@oacc.cc END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240801T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240907T170000 DTSTAMP:20260806T165125 CREATED:20240709T234004Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240909T184423Z UID:19213-1722513600-1725728400@oacc.cc SUMMARY:Precious Beings Exhibition & Closing Reception DESCRIPTION:A concert of Indian\, Persian and Afghan classical music featuring Arjun K. Verma\, Pezhham Akhavass\, Mazdak Alipour\, and Eman Hashimi   — \n \n \n \n Friday\, September 11\, 20267-9 pm$40 General Admission  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Interweaving brings together four virtuoso musicians from the Indian\, Persian\, and Afghan musical traditions in a rare meeting of some of Asia’s richest classical musical cultures. Featuring sitar\, kamancheh\, tabla\, daf\, and tombak\, this performance explores the deep historical connections and living dialogue between these traditions through improvisation\, virtuosity\, and collaborative creation. The very name of the Indian sitar is derived from Persian seh-tar (“three strings”)\, hinting at the centuries of artistic exchange between the Indian subcontinent and Persia.    Building on this shared heritage\, the musicians weave together intricate rhythmic cycles\, expressive melodic modes\, and spontaneous improvisation\, revealing both the common threads and distinctive voices of these musical lineages. Interweaving invites audiences into a shared sonic landscape where rhythm\, melody\, and improvisation transcend geography\, honoring centuries of cultural tradition and exchange\, while creating something entirely new in the moment.    Interweaving is presented by the Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, made possible through the Musical Grant Program\, administered by InterMusic SF\, and supported by the Clarence E. Heller Charitable Foundation and the Hewlett Foundation.    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Reserve Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT THE ARTISTS \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Arjun K. Verma is both a tradition-bearer and innovator in the world of North Indian Classical music. With over three decades of performance experience at venues including the United Nations\, the Fillmore\, and Prague Castle\, Arjun has emerged with a unique voice on the sitar – both within the tradition of North Indian Classical Music\, and through innovative cross-genre collaborations.    Hailed by the New York Times as a “fine sitarist\,” Arjun shares his cultural heritage in a manner that is fresh and modern\, while maintaining high standards of traditional integrity. His work is influenced by his upbringing as an Indian Classical musician in the West\, trained by Maestro Ali Akbar Khan. Arjun’s performance repertoire has stretched the limits of the sitar\, and his recording and composing work encompasses TV\, opera\, film\, and video games. He has recorded with artists including the London Symphony Orchestra\, Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, Sri Alam Khan\, and Grammy-winning jazz arranger and pianist John Beasley.    Learn more at arjun-verma.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Pezhham Akhavass is an accomplished musician\, percussionist\, multi-instrumentalist\, educator\, music director\, producer\, Voting Member of the Recording Academy (GRAMMY)\, and instructor known for his mastery of the tombak (Persian goblet drum)\, and daf (Persian frame drum). His exceptional talent and unique rhythmic approach have distinguished him as one of the most notable musicians of his generation.    Born in Iran in 1980\, Pezhham embarked on his musical journey under the guidance of his renowned father\, Mostafa Akhavass. He began studying tombak at age five with the esteemed Ostad Naser Farhanghfar\, later continuing with Mr. Saeid Roudbary. He holds BA and MA degrees in music from San Francisco State University\, and began studying tabla with Ustad Zakir Hussain in 2011.    Pezhham’s career includes performances at prestigious festivals and concert halls across Iran and internationally with renowned vocalist Shahram Nazeri\, and collaborations with Ostad Hossein Alizadeh and Ustad Zakir Hussain.    Learn more at www.pezhham.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Mazdak (Moslem) Alipour is a visionary Kamancheh player\, vocalist\, and composer\, with a distinguished career spanning over 30 years. Born into a musical lineage in Khorramabad\, Iran\, he began his journey under the tutelage of his father\, the legendary maestro Faraj Alipour.    Mazdak is a celebrated artist on the global stage\, earning prestigious recognition for innovation in Persian music:    • Global Music Awards: Silver and Bronze Medals   • Silk Road Project: Featured soloist conducted by Academy Award-winning Tan Dun   • UNESCO: Distinguished performer at “Mozart Day” in France   • UCLA: specialized performances and cultural initiatives   Based in Los Angeles\, Mazdak’s mastery of musical fusion blends ancient Persian heritage with contemporary global genres. With over 20 albums and the publication of “Taal” (a seminal book on Lori music)\, he continues to influence the world music scene through film scoring\, international tours\, and advanced music education.    Learn more at MazdakAlipour.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Eman Hashimi\, one of today’s most sought-after Afghan percussionists\, is widely recognized as the future of Afghan tabla. Born into the celebrated Hashimi musical family of Kabul’s historic Kharabat quarter\, he is the son of legendary maestro Ustad Toryalai Hashimi\, a pioneer of Afghan tabla.    A child prodigy\, Eman gave his first concert at age nine alongside his father\, later studying under world-renowned Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, with whom he became one of the youngest tabla players to perform in duet. His artistry bridges Afghan classical and folk traditions with the Punjab Gharana of tabla.    Eman has performed at the Kennedy Center\, San Francisco World Music Festival and beyond\, collaborating across genres. He also serves as founder and Director of Percussion at PACA\, preserving and promoting Afghanistan’s musical heritage at a time when music is banned in its homeland.    Learn more at emanhashimi.com URL:https://oacc.cc/event/preciousbeings/ LOCATION:Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, 388 9th St. #290\, Oakland\, CA\, 94607\, United States CATEGORIES:Featured,Past Exhibitions ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oacc.cc/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/precious-beings-exhibit-1.png ORGANIZER;CN="Oakland Asian Cultural Center":MAILTO:programs@oacc.cc END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240622T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240622T150000 DTSTAMP:20260806T165125 CREATED:20240501T215409Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240815T214302Z UID:18601-1719061200-1719068400@oacc.cc SUMMARY:"Searching for Kapwa" Film Screening and Discussion DESCRIPTION:A concert of Indian\, Persian and Afghan classical music featuring Arjun K. Verma\, Pezhham Akhavass\, Mazdak Alipour\, and Eman Hashimi   — \n \n \n \n Friday\, September 11\, 20267-9 pm$40 General Admission  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Interweaving brings together four virtuoso musicians from the Indian\, Persian\, and Afghan musical traditions in a rare meeting of some of Asia’s richest classical musical cultures. Featuring sitar\, kamancheh\, tabla\, daf\, and tombak\, this performance explores the deep historical connections and living dialogue between these traditions through improvisation\, virtuosity\, and collaborative creation. The very name of the Indian sitar is derived from Persian seh-tar (“three strings”)\, hinting at the centuries of artistic exchange between the Indian subcontinent and Persia.    Building on this shared heritage\, the musicians weave together intricate rhythmic cycles\, expressive melodic modes\, and spontaneous improvisation\, revealing both the common threads and distinctive voices of these musical lineages. Interweaving invites audiences into a shared sonic landscape where rhythm\, melody\, and improvisation transcend geography\, honoring centuries of cultural tradition and exchange\, while creating something entirely new in the moment.    Interweaving is presented by the Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, made possible through the Musical Grant Program\, administered by InterMusic SF\, and supported by the Clarence E. Heller Charitable Foundation and the Hewlett Foundation.    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Reserve Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT THE ARTISTS \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Arjun K. Verma is both a tradition-bearer and innovator in the world of North Indian Classical music. With over three decades of performance experience at venues including the United Nations\, the Fillmore\, and Prague Castle\, Arjun has emerged with a unique voice on the sitar – both within the tradition of North Indian Classical Music\, and through innovative cross-genre collaborations.    Hailed by the New York Times as a “fine sitarist\,” Arjun shares his cultural heritage in a manner that is fresh and modern\, while maintaining high standards of traditional integrity. His work is influenced by his upbringing as an Indian Classical musician in the West\, trained by Maestro Ali Akbar Khan. Arjun’s performance repertoire has stretched the limits of the sitar\, and his recording and composing work encompasses TV\, opera\, film\, and video games. He has recorded with artists including the London Symphony Orchestra\, Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, Sri Alam Khan\, and Grammy-winning jazz arranger and pianist John Beasley.    Learn more at arjun-verma.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Pezhham Akhavass is an accomplished musician\, percussionist\, multi-instrumentalist\, educator\, music director\, producer\, Voting Member of the Recording Academy (GRAMMY)\, and instructor known for his mastery of the tombak (Persian goblet drum)\, and daf (Persian frame drum). His exceptional talent and unique rhythmic approach have distinguished him as one of the most notable musicians of his generation.    Born in Iran in 1980\, Pezhham embarked on his musical journey under the guidance of his renowned father\, Mostafa Akhavass. He began studying tombak at age five with the esteemed Ostad Naser Farhanghfar\, later continuing with Mr. Saeid Roudbary. He holds BA and MA degrees in music from San Francisco State University\, and began studying tabla with Ustad Zakir Hussain in 2011.    Pezhham’s career includes performances at prestigious festivals and concert halls across Iran and internationally with renowned vocalist Shahram Nazeri\, and collaborations with Ostad Hossein Alizadeh and Ustad Zakir Hussain.    Learn more at www.pezhham.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Mazdak (Moslem) Alipour is a visionary Kamancheh player\, vocalist\, and composer\, with a distinguished career spanning over 30 years. Born into a musical lineage in Khorramabad\, Iran\, he began his journey under the tutelage of his father\, the legendary maestro Faraj Alipour.    Mazdak is a celebrated artist on the global stage\, earning prestigious recognition for innovation in Persian music:    • Global Music Awards: Silver and Bronze Medals   • Silk Road Project: Featured soloist conducted by Academy Award-winning Tan Dun   • UNESCO: Distinguished performer at “Mozart Day” in France   • UCLA: specialized performances and cultural initiatives   Based in Los Angeles\, Mazdak’s mastery of musical fusion blends ancient Persian heritage with contemporary global genres. With over 20 albums and the publication of “Taal” (a seminal book on Lori music)\, he continues to influence the world music scene through film scoring\, international tours\, and advanced music education.    Learn more at MazdakAlipour.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Eman Hashimi\, one of today’s most sought-after Afghan percussionists\, is widely recognized as the future of Afghan tabla. Born into the celebrated Hashimi musical family of Kabul’s historic Kharabat quarter\, he is the son of legendary maestro Ustad Toryalai Hashimi\, a pioneer of Afghan tabla.    A child prodigy\, Eman gave his first concert at age nine alongside his father\, later studying under world-renowned Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, with whom he became one of the youngest tabla players to perform in duet. His artistry bridges Afghan classical and folk traditions with the Punjab Gharana of tabla.    Eman has performed at the Kennedy Center\, San Francisco World Music Festival and beyond\, collaborating across genres. He also serves as founder and Director of Percussion at PACA\, preserving and promoting Afghanistan’s musical heritage at a time when music is banned in its homeland.    Learn more at emanhashimi.com URL:https://oacc.cc/event/searchingforkapwa/ LOCATION:Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, 388 9th St. #290\, Oakland\, CA\, 94607\, United States CATEGORIES:Featured,Past Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oacc.cc/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/EDITED-WEBSITE-THUMBNAIL-1.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Oakland Asian Cultural Center":MAILTO:programs@oacc.cc END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240614T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240727T170000 DTSTAMP:20260806T165125 CREATED:20240516T010352Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250306T184313Z UID:18767-1718366400-1722099600@oacc.cc SUMMARY:"Longing for Attachment" Exhibition DESCRIPTION:A concert of Indian\, Persian and Afghan classical music featuring Arjun K. Verma\, Pezhham Akhavass\, Mazdak Alipour\, and Eman Hashimi   — \n \n \n \n Friday\, September 11\, 20267-9 pm$40 General Admission  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Interweaving brings together four virtuoso musicians from the Indian\, Persian\, and Afghan musical traditions in a rare meeting of some of Asia’s richest classical musical cultures. Featuring sitar\, kamancheh\, tabla\, daf\, and tombak\, this performance explores the deep historical connections and living dialogue between these traditions through improvisation\, virtuosity\, and collaborative creation. The very name of the Indian sitar is derived from Persian seh-tar (“three strings”)\, hinting at the centuries of artistic exchange between the Indian subcontinent and Persia.    Building on this shared heritage\, the musicians weave together intricate rhythmic cycles\, expressive melodic modes\, and spontaneous improvisation\, revealing both the common threads and distinctive voices of these musical lineages. Interweaving invites audiences into a shared sonic landscape where rhythm\, melody\, and improvisation transcend geography\, honoring centuries of cultural tradition and exchange\, while creating something entirely new in the moment.    Interweaving is presented by the Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, made possible through the Musical Grant Program\, administered by InterMusic SF\, and supported by the Clarence E. Heller Charitable Foundation and the Hewlett Foundation.    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Reserve Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT THE ARTISTS \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Arjun K. Verma is both a tradition-bearer and innovator in the world of North Indian Classical music. With over three decades of performance experience at venues including the United Nations\, the Fillmore\, and Prague Castle\, Arjun has emerged with a unique voice on the sitar – both within the tradition of North Indian Classical Music\, and through innovative cross-genre collaborations.    Hailed by the New York Times as a “fine sitarist\,” Arjun shares his cultural heritage in a manner that is fresh and modern\, while maintaining high standards of traditional integrity. His work is influenced by his upbringing as an Indian Classical musician in the West\, trained by Maestro Ali Akbar Khan. Arjun’s performance repertoire has stretched the limits of the sitar\, and his recording and composing work encompasses TV\, opera\, film\, and video games. He has recorded with artists including the London Symphony Orchestra\, Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, Sri Alam Khan\, and Grammy-winning jazz arranger and pianist John Beasley.    Learn more at arjun-verma.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Pezhham Akhavass is an accomplished musician\, percussionist\, multi-instrumentalist\, educator\, music director\, producer\, Voting Member of the Recording Academy (GRAMMY)\, and instructor known for his mastery of the tombak (Persian goblet drum)\, and daf (Persian frame drum). His exceptional talent and unique rhythmic approach have distinguished him as one of the most notable musicians of his generation.    Born in Iran in 1980\, Pezhham embarked on his musical journey under the guidance of his renowned father\, Mostafa Akhavass. He began studying tombak at age five with the esteemed Ostad Naser Farhanghfar\, later continuing with Mr. Saeid Roudbary. He holds BA and MA degrees in music from San Francisco State University\, and began studying tabla with Ustad Zakir Hussain in 2011.    Pezhham’s career includes performances at prestigious festivals and concert halls across Iran and internationally with renowned vocalist Shahram Nazeri\, and collaborations with Ostad Hossein Alizadeh and Ustad Zakir Hussain.    Learn more at www.pezhham.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Mazdak (Moslem) Alipour is a visionary Kamancheh player\, vocalist\, and composer\, with a distinguished career spanning over 30 years. Born into a musical lineage in Khorramabad\, Iran\, he began his journey under the tutelage of his father\, the legendary maestro Faraj Alipour.    Mazdak is a celebrated artist on the global stage\, earning prestigious recognition for innovation in Persian music:    • Global Music Awards: Silver and Bronze Medals   • Silk Road Project: Featured soloist conducted by Academy Award-winning Tan Dun   • UNESCO: Distinguished performer at “Mozart Day” in France   • UCLA: specialized performances and cultural initiatives   Based in Los Angeles\, Mazdak’s mastery of musical fusion blends ancient Persian heritage with contemporary global genres. With over 20 albums and the publication of “Taal” (a seminal book on Lori music)\, he continues to influence the world music scene through film scoring\, international tours\, and advanced music education.    Learn more at MazdakAlipour.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Eman Hashimi\, one of today’s most sought-after Afghan percussionists\, is widely recognized as the future of Afghan tabla. Born into the celebrated Hashimi musical family of Kabul’s historic Kharabat quarter\, he is the son of legendary maestro Ustad Toryalai Hashimi\, a pioneer of Afghan tabla.    A child prodigy\, Eman gave his first concert at age nine alongside his father\, later studying under world-renowned Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, with whom he became one of the youngest tabla players to perform in duet. His artistry bridges Afghan classical and folk traditions with the Punjab Gharana of tabla.    Eman has performed at the Kennedy Center\, San Francisco World Music Festival and beyond\, collaborating across genres. He also serves as founder and Director of Percussion at PACA\, preserving and promoting Afghanistan’s musical heritage at a time when music is banned in its homeland.    Learn more at emanhashimi.com URL:https://oacc.cc/event/longingforattachment/ LOCATION:Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, 388 9th St. #290\, Oakland\, CA\, 94607\, United States CATEGORIES:Past Exhibitions ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oacc.cc/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/thumbnail.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Oakland Asian Cultural Center":MAILTO:programs@oacc.cc END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240601T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240601T160000 DTSTAMP:20260806T165125 CREATED:20240408T221152Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240529T004707Z UID:18221-1717243200-1717257600@oacc.cc SUMMARY:AAPI Mental Health & Wellness Jam 2024 DESCRIPTION:A concert of Indian\, Persian and Afghan classical music featuring Arjun K. Verma\, Pezhham Akhavass\, Mazdak Alipour\, and Eman Hashimi   — \n \n \n \n Friday\, September 11\, 20267-9 pm$40 General Admission  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Interweaving brings together four virtuoso musicians from the Indian\, Persian\, and Afghan musical traditions in a rare meeting of some of Asia’s richest classical musical cultures. Featuring sitar\, kamancheh\, tabla\, daf\, and tombak\, this performance explores the deep historical connections and living dialogue between these traditions through improvisation\, virtuosity\, and collaborative creation. The very name of the Indian sitar is derived from Persian seh-tar (“three strings”)\, hinting at the centuries of artistic exchange between the Indian subcontinent and Persia.    Building on this shared heritage\, the musicians weave together intricate rhythmic cycles\, expressive melodic modes\, and spontaneous improvisation\, revealing both the common threads and distinctive voices of these musical lineages. Interweaving invites audiences into a shared sonic landscape where rhythm\, melody\, and improvisation transcend geography\, honoring centuries of cultural tradition and exchange\, while creating something entirely new in the moment.    Interweaving is presented by the Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, made possible through the Musical Grant Program\, administered by InterMusic SF\, and supported by the Clarence E. Heller Charitable Foundation and the Hewlett Foundation.    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Reserve Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT THE ARTISTS \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Arjun K. Verma is both a tradition-bearer and innovator in the world of North Indian Classical music. With over three decades of performance experience at venues including the United Nations\, the Fillmore\, and Prague Castle\, Arjun has emerged with a unique voice on the sitar – both within the tradition of North Indian Classical Music\, and through innovative cross-genre collaborations.    Hailed by the New York Times as a “fine sitarist\,” Arjun shares his cultural heritage in a manner that is fresh and modern\, while maintaining high standards of traditional integrity. His work is influenced by his upbringing as an Indian Classical musician in the West\, trained by Maestro Ali Akbar Khan. Arjun’s performance repertoire has stretched the limits of the sitar\, and his recording and composing work encompasses TV\, opera\, film\, and video games. He has recorded with artists including the London Symphony Orchestra\, Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, Sri Alam Khan\, and Grammy-winning jazz arranger and pianist John Beasley.    Learn more at arjun-verma.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Pezhham Akhavass is an accomplished musician\, percussionist\, multi-instrumentalist\, educator\, music director\, producer\, Voting Member of the Recording Academy (GRAMMY)\, and instructor known for his mastery of the tombak (Persian goblet drum)\, and daf (Persian frame drum). His exceptional talent and unique rhythmic approach have distinguished him as one of the most notable musicians of his generation.    Born in Iran in 1980\, Pezhham embarked on his musical journey under the guidance of his renowned father\, Mostafa Akhavass. He began studying tombak at age five with the esteemed Ostad Naser Farhanghfar\, later continuing with Mr. Saeid Roudbary. He holds BA and MA degrees in music from San Francisco State University\, and began studying tabla with Ustad Zakir Hussain in 2011.    Pezhham’s career includes performances at prestigious festivals and concert halls across Iran and internationally with renowned vocalist Shahram Nazeri\, and collaborations with Ostad Hossein Alizadeh and Ustad Zakir Hussain.    Learn more at www.pezhham.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Mazdak (Moslem) Alipour is a visionary Kamancheh player\, vocalist\, and composer\, with a distinguished career spanning over 30 years. Born into a musical lineage in Khorramabad\, Iran\, he began his journey under the tutelage of his father\, the legendary maestro Faraj Alipour.    Mazdak is a celebrated artist on the global stage\, earning prestigious recognition for innovation in Persian music:    • Global Music Awards: Silver and Bronze Medals   • Silk Road Project: Featured soloist conducted by Academy Award-winning Tan Dun   • UNESCO: Distinguished performer at “Mozart Day” in France   • UCLA: specialized performances and cultural initiatives   Based in Los Angeles\, Mazdak’s mastery of musical fusion blends ancient Persian heritage with contemporary global genres. With over 20 albums and the publication of “Taal” (a seminal book on Lori music)\, he continues to influence the world music scene through film scoring\, international tours\, and advanced music education.    Learn more at MazdakAlipour.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Eman Hashimi\, one of today’s most sought-after Afghan percussionists\, is widely recognized as the future of Afghan tabla. Born into the celebrated Hashimi musical family of Kabul’s historic Kharabat quarter\, he is the son of legendary maestro Ustad Toryalai Hashimi\, a pioneer of Afghan tabla.    A child prodigy\, Eman gave his first concert at age nine alongside his father\, later studying under world-renowned Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, with whom he became one of the youngest tabla players to perform in duet. His artistry bridges Afghan classical and folk traditions with the Punjab Gharana of tabla.    Eman has performed at the Kennedy Center\, San Francisco World Music Festival and beyond\, collaborating across genres. He also serves as founder and Director of Percussion at PACA\, preserving and promoting Afghanistan’s musical heritage at a time when music is banned in its homeland.    Learn more at emanhashimi.com URL:https://oacc.cc/event/aapimentalhealthjam2024/ LOCATION:Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, 388 9th St. #290\, Oakland\, CA\, 94607\, United States CATEGORIES:Featured,Upcoming Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oacc.cc/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/thumbnail-4.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Oakland Asian Cultural Center":MAILTO:programs@oacc.cc END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240517T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240517T203000 DTSTAMP:20260806T165125 CREATED:20240405T021110Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240521T223106Z UID:18246-1715972400-1715977800@oacc.cc SUMMARY:Premiere Short Film Documentaries From Anthony Brown’s Asian American Orchestra’s 2018 Performance with Angela Davis and Janice Mirikitani Followed by a Live Performance DESCRIPTION:A concert of Indian\, Persian and Afghan classical music featuring Arjun K. Verma\, Pezhham Akhavass\, Mazdak Alipour\, and Eman Hashimi   — \n \n \n \n Friday\, September 11\, 20267-9 pm$40 General Admission  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Interweaving brings together four virtuoso musicians from the Indian\, Persian\, and Afghan musical traditions in a rare meeting of some of Asia’s richest classical musical cultures. Featuring sitar\, kamancheh\, tabla\, daf\, and tombak\, this performance explores the deep historical connections and living dialogue between these traditions through improvisation\, virtuosity\, and collaborative creation. The very name of the Indian sitar is derived from Persian seh-tar (“three strings”)\, hinting at the centuries of artistic exchange between the Indian subcontinent and Persia.    Building on this shared heritage\, the musicians weave together intricate rhythmic cycles\, expressive melodic modes\, and spontaneous improvisation\, revealing both the common threads and distinctive voices of these musical lineages. Interweaving invites audiences into a shared sonic landscape where rhythm\, melody\, and improvisation transcend geography\, honoring centuries of cultural tradition and exchange\, while creating something entirely new in the moment.    Interweaving is presented by the Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, made possible through the Musical Grant Program\, administered by InterMusic SF\, and supported by the Clarence E. Heller Charitable Foundation and the Hewlett Foundation.    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Reserve Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT THE ARTISTS \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Arjun K. Verma is both a tradition-bearer and innovator in the world of North Indian Classical music. With over three decades of performance experience at venues including the United Nations\, the Fillmore\, and Prague Castle\, Arjun has emerged with a unique voice on the sitar – both within the tradition of North Indian Classical Music\, and through innovative cross-genre collaborations.    Hailed by the New York Times as a “fine sitarist\,” Arjun shares his cultural heritage in a manner that is fresh and modern\, while maintaining high standards of traditional integrity. His work is influenced by his upbringing as an Indian Classical musician in the West\, trained by Maestro Ali Akbar Khan. Arjun’s performance repertoire has stretched the limits of the sitar\, and his recording and composing work encompasses TV\, opera\, film\, and video games. He has recorded with artists including the London Symphony Orchestra\, Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, Sri Alam Khan\, and Grammy-winning jazz arranger and pianist John Beasley.    Learn more at arjun-verma.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Pezhham Akhavass is an accomplished musician\, percussionist\, multi-instrumentalist\, educator\, music director\, producer\, Voting Member of the Recording Academy (GRAMMY)\, and instructor known for his mastery of the tombak (Persian goblet drum)\, and daf (Persian frame drum). His exceptional talent and unique rhythmic approach have distinguished him as one of the most notable musicians of his generation.    Born in Iran in 1980\, Pezhham embarked on his musical journey under the guidance of his renowned father\, Mostafa Akhavass. He began studying tombak at age five with the esteemed Ostad Naser Farhanghfar\, later continuing with Mr. Saeid Roudbary. He holds BA and MA degrees in music from San Francisco State University\, and began studying tabla with Ustad Zakir Hussain in 2011.    Pezhham’s career includes performances at prestigious festivals and concert halls across Iran and internationally with renowned vocalist Shahram Nazeri\, and collaborations with Ostad Hossein Alizadeh and Ustad Zakir Hussain.    Learn more at www.pezhham.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Mazdak (Moslem) Alipour is a visionary Kamancheh player\, vocalist\, and composer\, with a distinguished career spanning over 30 years. Born into a musical lineage in Khorramabad\, Iran\, he began his journey under the tutelage of his father\, the legendary maestro Faraj Alipour.    Mazdak is a celebrated artist on the global stage\, earning prestigious recognition for innovation in Persian music:    • Global Music Awards: Silver and Bronze Medals   • Silk Road Project: Featured soloist conducted by Academy Award-winning Tan Dun   • UNESCO: Distinguished performer at “Mozart Day” in France   • UCLA: specialized performances and cultural initiatives   Based in Los Angeles\, Mazdak’s mastery of musical fusion blends ancient Persian heritage with contemporary global genres. With over 20 albums and the publication of “Taal” (a seminal book on Lori music)\, he continues to influence the world music scene through film scoring\, international tours\, and advanced music education.    Learn more at MazdakAlipour.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Eman Hashimi\, one of today’s most sought-after Afghan percussionists\, is widely recognized as the future of Afghan tabla. Born into the celebrated Hashimi musical family of Kabul’s historic Kharabat quarter\, he is the son of legendary maestro Ustad Toryalai Hashimi\, a pioneer of Afghan tabla.    A child prodigy\, Eman gave his first concert at age nine alongside his father\, later studying under world-renowned Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, with whom he became one of the youngest tabla players to perform in duet. His artistry bridges Afghan classical and folk traditions with the Punjab Gharana of tabla.    Eman has performed at the Kennedy Center\, San Francisco World Music Festival and beyond\, collaborating across genres. He also serves as founder and Director of Percussion at PACA\, preserving and promoting Afghanistan’s musical heritage at a time when music is banned in its homeland.    Learn more at emanhashimi.com URL:https://oacc.cc/event/premierewithanthonybrown/ LOCATION:Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, 388 9th St. #290\, Oakland\, CA\, 94607\, United States CATEGORIES:Featured,Past Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oacc.cc/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/thumbnail-2.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Oakland Asian Cultural Center":MAILTO:programs@oacc.cc END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240511T110000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240511T123000 DTSTAMP:20260806T165125 CREATED:20240326T235217Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240521T223138Z UID:18196-1715425200-1715430600@oacc.cc SUMMARY:Movement Workshop: Interwoven Stories of Culture\, Belonging\, and Change\, Facilitated by Ishami Dance Company DESCRIPTION:A concert of Indian\, Persian and Afghan classical music featuring Arjun K. Verma\, Pezhham Akhavass\, Mazdak Alipour\, and Eman Hashimi   — \n \n \n \n Friday\, September 11\, 20267-9 pm$40 General Admission  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Interweaving brings together four virtuoso musicians from the Indian\, Persian\, and Afghan musical traditions in a rare meeting of some of Asia’s richest classical musical cultures. Featuring sitar\, kamancheh\, tabla\, daf\, and tombak\, this performance explores the deep historical connections and living dialogue between these traditions through improvisation\, virtuosity\, and collaborative creation. The very name of the Indian sitar is derived from Persian seh-tar (“three strings”)\, hinting at the centuries of artistic exchange between the Indian subcontinent and Persia.    Building on this shared heritage\, the musicians weave together intricate rhythmic cycles\, expressive melodic modes\, and spontaneous improvisation\, revealing both the common threads and distinctive voices of these musical lineages. Interweaving invites audiences into a shared sonic landscape where rhythm\, melody\, and improvisation transcend geography\, honoring centuries of cultural tradition and exchange\, while creating something entirely new in the moment.    Interweaving is presented by the Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, made possible through the Musical Grant Program\, administered by InterMusic SF\, and supported by the Clarence E. Heller Charitable Foundation and the Hewlett Foundation.    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Reserve Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT THE ARTISTS \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Arjun K. Verma is both a tradition-bearer and innovator in the world of North Indian Classical music. With over three decades of performance experience at venues including the United Nations\, the Fillmore\, and Prague Castle\, Arjun has emerged with a unique voice on the sitar – both within the tradition of North Indian Classical Music\, and through innovative cross-genre collaborations.    Hailed by the New York Times as a “fine sitarist\,” Arjun shares his cultural heritage in a manner that is fresh and modern\, while maintaining high standards of traditional integrity. His work is influenced by his upbringing as an Indian Classical musician in the West\, trained by Maestro Ali Akbar Khan. Arjun’s performance repertoire has stretched the limits of the sitar\, and his recording and composing work encompasses TV\, opera\, film\, and video games. He has recorded with artists including the London Symphony Orchestra\, Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, Sri Alam Khan\, and Grammy-winning jazz arranger and pianist John Beasley.    Learn more at arjun-verma.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Pezhham Akhavass is an accomplished musician\, percussionist\, multi-instrumentalist\, educator\, music director\, producer\, Voting Member of the Recording Academy (GRAMMY)\, and instructor known for his mastery of the tombak (Persian goblet drum)\, and daf (Persian frame drum). His exceptional talent and unique rhythmic approach have distinguished him as one of the most notable musicians of his generation.    Born in Iran in 1980\, Pezhham embarked on his musical journey under the guidance of his renowned father\, Mostafa Akhavass. He began studying tombak at age five with the esteemed Ostad Naser Farhanghfar\, later continuing with Mr. Saeid Roudbary. He holds BA and MA degrees in music from San Francisco State University\, and began studying tabla with Ustad Zakir Hussain in 2011.    Pezhham’s career includes performances at prestigious festivals and concert halls across Iran and internationally with renowned vocalist Shahram Nazeri\, and collaborations with Ostad Hossein Alizadeh and Ustad Zakir Hussain.    Learn more at www.pezhham.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Mazdak (Moslem) Alipour is a visionary Kamancheh player\, vocalist\, and composer\, with a distinguished career spanning over 30 years. Born into a musical lineage in Khorramabad\, Iran\, he began his journey under the tutelage of his father\, the legendary maestro Faraj Alipour.    Mazdak is a celebrated artist on the global stage\, earning prestigious recognition for innovation in Persian music:    • Global Music Awards: Silver and Bronze Medals   • Silk Road Project: Featured soloist conducted by Academy Award-winning Tan Dun   • UNESCO: Distinguished performer at “Mozart Day” in France   • UCLA: specialized performances and cultural initiatives   Based in Los Angeles\, Mazdak’s mastery of musical fusion blends ancient Persian heritage with contemporary global genres. With over 20 albums and the publication of “Taal” (a seminal book on Lori music)\, he continues to influence the world music scene through film scoring\, international tours\, and advanced music education.    Learn more at MazdakAlipour.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Eman Hashimi\, one of today’s most sought-after Afghan percussionists\, is widely recognized as the future of Afghan tabla. Born into the celebrated Hashimi musical family of Kabul’s historic Kharabat quarter\, he is the son of legendary maestro Ustad Toryalai Hashimi\, a pioneer of Afghan tabla.    A child prodigy\, Eman gave his first concert at age nine alongside his father\, later studying under world-renowned Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, with whom he became one of the youngest tabla players to perform in duet. His artistry bridges Afghan classical and folk traditions with the Punjab Gharana of tabla.    Eman has performed at the Kennedy Center\, San Francisco World Music Festival and beyond\, collaborating across genres. He also serves as founder and Director of Percussion at PACA\, preserving and promoting Afghanistan’s musical heritage at a time when music is banned in its homeland.    Learn more at emanhashimi.com URL:https://oacc.cc/event/interwovenstoriesworkshop/ LOCATION:Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, 388 9th St. #290\, Oakland\, CA\, 94607\, United States CATEGORIES:Featured,Past Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oacc.cc/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/workshop-thumbnail.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Oakland Asian Cultural Center":MAILTO:programs@oacc.cc END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240510T200000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240510T213000 DTSTAMP:20260806T165125 CREATED:20240321T205611Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240521T223216Z UID:18161-1715371200-1715376600@oacc.cc SUMMARY:Interwoven Stories of Culture\, Belonging\, and Change\, Featuring Ishami Dance Company DESCRIPTION:A concert of Indian\, Persian and Afghan classical music featuring Arjun K. Verma\, Pezhham Akhavass\, Mazdak Alipour\, and Eman Hashimi   — \n \n \n \n Friday\, September 11\, 20267-9 pm$40 General Admission  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Interweaving brings together four virtuoso musicians from the Indian\, Persian\, and Afghan musical traditions in a rare meeting of some of Asia’s richest classical musical cultures. Featuring sitar\, kamancheh\, tabla\, daf\, and tombak\, this performance explores the deep historical connections and living dialogue between these traditions through improvisation\, virtuosity\, and collaborative creation. The very name of the Indian sitar is derived from Persian seh-tar (“three strings”)\, hinting at the centuries of artistic exchange between the Indian subcontinent and Persia.    Building on this shared heritage\, the musicians weave together intricate rhythmic cycles\, expressive melodic modes\, and spontaneous improvisation\, revealing both the common threads and distinctive voices of these musical lineages. Interweaving invites audiences into a shared sonic landscape where rhythm\, melody\, and improvisation transcend geography\, honoring centuries of cultural tradition and exchange\, while creating something entirely new in the moment.    Interweaving is presented by the Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, made possible through the Musical Grant Program\, administered by InterMusic SF\, and supported by the Clarence E. Heller Charitable Foundation and the Hewlett Foundation.    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Reserve Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT THE ARTISTS \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Arjun K. Verma is both a tradition-bearer and innovator in the world of North Indian Classical music. With over three decades of performance experience at venues including the United Nations\, the Fillmore\, and Prague Castle\, Arjun has emerged with a unique voice on the sitar – both within the tradition of North Indian Classical Music\, and through innovative cross-genre collaborations.    Hailed by the New York Times as a “fine sitarist\,” Arjun shares his cultural heritage in a manner that is fresh and modern\, while maintaining high standards of traditional integrity. His work is influenced by his upbringing as an Indian Classical musician in the West\, trained by Maestro Ali Akbar Khan. Arjun’s performance repertoire has stretched the limits of the sitar\, and his recording and composing work encompasses TV\, opera\, film\, and video games. He has recorded with artists including the London Symphony Orchestra\, Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, Sri Alam Khan\, and Grammy-winning jazz arranger and pianist John Beasley.    Learn more at arjun-verma.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Pezhham Akhavass is an accomplished musician\, percussionist\, multi-instrumentalist\, educator\, music director\, producer\, Voting Member of the Recording Academy (GRAMMY)\, and instructor known for his mastery of the tombak (Persian goblet drum)\, and daf (Persian frame drum). His exceptional talent and unique rhythmic approach have distinguished him as one of the most notable musicians of his generation.    Born in Iran in 1980\, Pezhham embarked on his musical journey under the guidance of his renowned father\, Mostafa Akhavass. He began studying tombak at age five with the esteemed Ostad Naser Farhanghfar\, later continuing with Mr. Saeid Roudbary. He holds BA and MA degrees in music from San Francisco State University\, and began studying tabla with Ustad Zakir Hussain in 2011.    Pezhham’s career includes performances at prestigious festivals and concert halls across Iran and internationally with renowned vocalist Shahram Nazeri\, and collaborations with Ostad Hossein Alizadeh and Ustad Zakir Hussain.    Learn more at www.pezhham.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Mazdak (Moslem) Alipour is a visionary Kamancheh player\, vocalist\, and composer\, with a distinguished career spanning over 30 years. Born into a musical lineage in Khorramabad\, Iran\, he began his journey under the tutelage of his father\, the legendary maestro Faraj Alipour.    Mazdak is a celebrated artist on the global stage\, earning prestigious recognition for innovation in Persian music:    • Global Music Awards: Silver and Bronze Medals   • Silk Road Project: Featured soloist conducted by Academy Award-winning Tan Dun   • UNESCO: Distinguished performer at “Mozart Day” in France   • UCLA: specialized performances and cultural initiatives   Based in Los Angeles\, Mazdak’s mastery of musical fusion blends ancient Persian heritage with contemporary global genres. With over 20 albums and the publication of “Taal” (a seminal book on Lori music)\, he continues to influence the world music scene through film scoring\, international tours\, and advanced music education.    Learn more at MazdakAlipour.com    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Eman Hashimi\, one of today’s most sought-after Afghan percussionists\, is widely recognized as the future of Afghan tabla. Born into the celebrated Hashimi musical family of Kabul’s historic Kharabat quarter\, he is the son of legendary maestro Ustad Toryalai Hashimi\, a pioneer of Afghan tabla.    A child prodigy\, Eman gave his first concert at age nine alongside his father\, later studying under world-renowned Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri\, with whom he became one of the youngest tabla players to perform in duet. His artistry bridges Afghan classical and folk traditions with the Punjab Gharana of tabla.    Eman has performed at the Kennedy Center\, San Francisco World Music Festival and beyond\, collaborating across genres. He also serves as founder and Director of Percussion at PACA\, preserving and promoting Afghanistan’s musical heritage at a time when music is banned in its homeland.    Learn more at emanhashimi.com URL:https://oacc.cc/event/interwovenstories/ LOCATION:Oakland Asian Cultural Center\, 388 9th St. #290\, Oakland\, CA\, 94607\, United States CATEGORIES:Featured,Past Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oacc.cc/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/1.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Oakland Asian Cultural Center":MAILTO:programs@oacc.cc END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR