An Evening of Music & Community

About The Artists

Mamak Khadem, celebrated as "one of the wonders of world trance music" by the Los Angeles Times, has journeyed from her youth in Tehran to becoming a globally acclaimed singer, composer, and advocate for cultural diversity and human rights. With a career marked by blending classical Persian music with global influences, she has captivated audiences with her exceptional voice and artistry. A former mathematics educator for 18 years, Khadem transitioned to music full-time, releasing acclaimed solo albums such as Jostojoo, The Road, and Remembrance, which honors her late father. Her work draws on Persian poetry, diverse musical traditions, and themes of love, loss, and healing, earning her a place as a pioneering voice in contemporary world music.

Mehdi Bagheri, born in Kermanshah in 1980, began his musical journey with the Tonbak under Ramin Tafazoli's instruction before expanding to Setar and Kamancheh, eventually mastering the latter with guidance from Kayhan Kalhor and Ardeshir Kamkar. A graduate in Drama from Azad University (2003), he has performed globally in prestigious festivals and venues. Mehdi's works span film music, Iranian classical, and eclectic styles. Notable achievements include publishing Ali-Akbar Shahnazi's radif, solo and ensemble Kamancheh pieces, and contributing to the Assassin's Creed Mirage game soundtrack.

Yahya Alkhansa, born on December 26, 1981, in Tehran, Yahya began playing Tombak at age 9, transitioning to drum set at 16. He toured with underground rock musicians in Iran before joining the 127 band in 2002, performing at global festivals like Arezzo Wave and SXSW. Yahya also toured internationally with artists like Mohsen Namjoo and KIOSK.

He holds a Bachelor's in Material Science from Azad University of Tehran and an Advanced Performance Certificate from NYC's Drummers Collective School of Music (2012). With expertise in drum performance, studio recording, and music education, Yahya has a strong presence in the music industry.

Host or Publisher RAD Arts Foundation