Unlocking the Rhythms of Iranian Culture: UCLA's Groundbreaking Gramian-Emrani Center for Iranian Music

In a transformative move, UCLA has established the Gramian-Emrani Center for Iranian Music, a new academic hub that promises to elevate the study and appreciation of one of the world's oldest and most vibrant musical traditions. Fueled by a $5 million pledge from Haleh Emrani in honor of her late husband, Ahmad Gramian, this center builds upon UCLA's existing strengths in Iranian studies, offering a unique platform for scholars, artists, and the community to engage with the rich tapestry of Iranian music and culture.

Amplifying the Voices of Iranian Musical Traditions

Honoring a Legacy, Shaping the Future

The Gramian-Emrani Center for Iranian Music stands as a testament to the enduring passion and vision of Ahmad Gramian, a founding trustee and former chairman of the Farhang Foundation. Gramian, a lifelong supporter of the arts, was deeply committed to promoting Iranian art and culture. Haleh Emrani's generous gift, in his memory, will ensure that his legacy lives on, inspiring a new generation of artists and scholars to delve into the depths of Iran's musical heritage.

Blending Scholarship and Performance

The center's unique approach will seamlessly integrate the school of music's twin strengths: music performance and scholarly research. By hosting guest artists and scholars, the center will foster collaborations between graduate students, faculty, and renowned experts in the fields of ethnomusicology, musicology, and music composition. This dynamic interplay will not only preserve the rich traditions of Iranian music but also explore innovative ways to expand its horizons.

Preserving and Promoting Cultural Vitality

The Gramian-Emrani Center for Iranian Music will serve as a hub for the collection and preservation of Iranian music, partnering with the school's renowned Ethnomusicology Archive. Scholars interested in the documentation of cultural transmission across regions and centuries will benefit from the center's roundtables, workshops, and conferences, which will delve into the intricate tapestry of Iranian musical traditions.

Connecting with the Community

Los Angeles, home to one of the largest Iranian immigrant communities in the country, will serve as the vibrant backdrop for the center's public programming. Emrani's vision is to use music as a bridge, connecting the past and present, and fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of Iranian culture within the broader community. The center's inaugural celebration, featuring performances by renowned artists, will offer the public a glimpse into the richness and diversity of Iranian music.

Expanding the Horizons of Iranian Music

The Gramian-Emrani Center for Iranian Music will build upon the school of music's existing Iranian Music Program, established in 2018 with the support of the Farhang Foundation. Under the artistic direction of Shahab Paranj, a postdoctoral fellow in Iranian music, the center will continue to bring world-class artists and scholars to the school, while also expanding its concert series and scholarly programs. By preserving the heritage of Iranian music and exploring its contemporary relevance, the center aims to position UCLA as a leading force in the study and appreciation of this vibrant cultural tradition.

A Transformative Gift, A Lasting Impact

Haleh Emrani's transformative gift, in honor of her late husband, Ahmad Gramian, has the potential to reshape the landscape of Iranian music studies at UCLA and beyond. The Gramian-Emrani Center for Iranian Music will not only serve as a hub for academic research and artistic expression but also as a bridge between the rich cultural legacy of Iran and the diverse communities of Los Angeles. Through this center, the legacy of Ahmad Gramian will continue to inspire and enlighten, ensuring that the rhythms and melodies of Iranian music continue to resonate and evolve for generations to come.