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: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:20250130T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250501T170000 DTSTAMP:20260806T164537 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:20250411T193000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250411T213000 DTSTAMP:20260806T164537 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:20250419T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250419T140000 DTSTAMP:20260806T164537 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:20250419T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250419T170000 DTSTAMP:20260806T164537 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:20250427T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250427T160000 DTSTAMP:20260806T164537 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 END:VCALENDAR