The work of San Jose saxophonist and composer Hafez Modirzadeh is equal parts head and heart: He loves to delve into the theory of music as well as the mind-transcending direct experience of making it. His work encompasses jazz, new music, Persian classical and more. He also co-directs the Jazz and World Music program at San Francisco State University.
Modirzadeh spoke with KALW’s Jen Chien about working on a musical philosophy to match his view of the world — where there is no hierarchy of cultures or traditions.
MODIRZADEH: These are not micro-tones, these are not quarter tones, these are not three-quarter tones — in the same way that you and I cannot call ourselves three-quarter human because we are not all so-called white.
Hafez Modirzadeh accompanies poet, Nathaniel Mackey, at a house concert in Berkeley on Monday, Nov. 7. For ticket information send an email to Harry@fullplatemedia.com.
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