Hamsaz Ensemble: Iranian Folk Music, Community and Culture in Manchester

Hamsaz Ensemble: Preserving Iranian Folk Music Through Community, Culture and Storytelling

Traditional Iranian music continues to bring people together across generations and cultures. Hamsaz Ensemble, a Manchester-based group connected to Sahba Academy, is helping to introduce audiences across the UK to the richness of Iranian folk music while sharing stories of identity, community and hope.

Hamsaz Ensemble performing traditional Iranian folk music at Band on the Wall, Manchester.

Bringing Musicians Together

Hamsaz Ensemble was formed shortly before the COVID-19 pandemic by students of Sahba Academy in Manchester. What began as a small musical project quickly developed into a diverse ensemble bringing together musicians of different ages, backgrounds and life experiences through a shared passion for Iranian traditional music.

Today, the ensemble includes members from multiple generations, creating a unique musical community where cultural heritage and contemporary experiences meet.

Hamsaz Ensemble live in concert at Band on the Wall, Manchester.

Celebrating the Diversity of Iranian Folk Music

Iranian folk music reflects the diversity of the country's regions, languages, dialects and traditions. Through its performances, Hamsaz Ensemble introduces audiences to music from different parts of Iran, helping listeners discover the cultural richness that exists beyond the country's major cities.

For many members of the ensemble, participation has been both a musical and educational journey. Exploring folk traditions from different regions has deepened their understanding of Iran's cultural heritage while creating opportunities to share that heritage with wider audiences.

Traditional Iranian instruments performed live by members of Hamsaz Ensemble in Manchester.

Music as a Universal Language

One of the ensemble's central beliefs is that music can connect people across cultures and backgrounds. Their performances often attract audiences with little previous knowledge of Iranian music, creating opportunities for dialogue, curiosity and cultural exchange.

The ensemble's members come from varied personal histories, including people born in Iran and others born in the UK. Despite these differences, music provides a shared language that brings everyone together.

Daf performance by members of Hamsaz Ensemble during a live concert in Manchester.

The Long Tradition of Iranian Music

Iran's musical heritage stretches back centuries and is rooted in the Radif system, one of the world's oldest established musical traditions. Throughout history, music has played an important role in expressing social experiences, cultural identity and artistic creativity.

Contemporary Iranian musicians continue to build on these traditions, combining classical and folk influences with modern styles to engage new generations of listeners.

Hamsaz Ensemble combines traditional Iranian music with contemporary cultural storytelling.

Music, Community and Social Awareness

Hamsaz Ensemble has also used its performances to raise awareness of important social issues affecting Iranian communities. Through music and storytelling, the group encourages audiences to learn more about contemporary events and the experiences of people living both inside and outside Iran.

Their performances demonstrate how traditional music can remain relevant while addressing themes of identity, belonging, resilience and hope.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QnZzPzmwbYc

A moment shared by members of Hamsaz Ensemble, celebrating music, culture and community.

Traditional Instruments at the Heart of the Ensemble

Hamsaz Ensemble performs using traditional Iranian instruments including:

• Santur

• Setar

• Daf

Alongside these instruments, the group also incorporates selected Western instruments, creating a distinctive sound that respects tradition while appealing to modern audiences.

Hamsaz Ensemble musicians and performers celebrating community, culture and Iranian folk music.

How Iranian Folk Music Enriches Manchester's Cultural Life

Through concerts, community events and cultural programmes, Hamsaz Ensemble continues to promote Iranian folk music across the UK. Their work highlights the power of music to preserve cultural heritage, strengthen communities and create meaningful connections between people from different backgrounds.

As audiences continue to discover the beauty of Iranian traditional music, ensembles such as Hamsaz play an important role in ensuring these traditions remain vibrant for future generations.