The violin in 'Organ in the Mosque' is performed in the Bayat e turk mode of playing; one of many modal systems (Dastgahs) in traditional Persian music. The call to prayer composed in this mode is often heard echoing from minarets within the mosque's courtyard. For many Iranians, this sacred sound is reminiscent of the Om, an ode to Persian culture. It kindles vivid memories of pigeons soaring above the mosque, the nostalgic scent of rosewater and the symmetry of blue Persian tiles adorning the walls. 

The accompaniment of the organ connotes a holy element to this dynamic medley. You will hear the organ in the masterpieces of Mozart and Bach, as well as orchestral hymns. It’s heavenly sound resonates with the grandeur of cathedrals, the beauty of illuminated stained glass, laced with centuries of tradition.

In ‘Organ in the Mosque’, I wanted to invoke what it is like to hear an organ in a mosque. Blending the spiritual sounds of the east and the west through music; this piece is a reconciliation of parallel rituals across distant cultures.

Ashkan