Exclusive Interview with Ghazaleh Taalimoghaddam: Fusing Iran’s Authentic Music With The Modern Musical World
Written by: Safaque Kagdi
Iranian singer and Dotar player, Ghazaleh Taalimoghaddam weaves traditional Persian melodies with modern influences, creating a sound that feels both timeless and fresh.
Her journey started with rigorous training under legends like Sara Naeini and Master Mohammad Yeganeh. The Dotar, a UNESCO-recognized instrument, became her voice, carrying the depth of Persian heritage into the global music scene.
From India to Spain, Uzbekistan to Iraq, she has captivated audiences worldwide, proving that tradition can evolve without losing its essence. With the Haray Ladies Folklore Music Group, she has earned top honors at international festivals, reinforcing her reputation as a force in world music.
Her latest single, Faash, showcases her evolving artistry, blending rich Persian roots with contemporary sounds. And she’s not stopping there—her next original song is already in the works, promising an album soon!
In this interview, Ghazaleh opens up about her musical influences, her standout moments, her love for preserving tradition in a modern world, and her vision for the future of Persian music.
1. What inspired you to choose the Dotar as your primary instrument, and how does it connect you to Persian folklore?
When I was a child, I once saw a woman playing the Dotar. I was completely mesmerized, lost in the sound and the moment. As soon as she finished playing, I ran to my parents with all my heart and said, “I want this instrument!”
It was as if something deep inside me had found peace, as if the Dotar had always been a part of me, calling me to play it. The Dotar is one of the oldest folk instruments of northern Iran, a storyteller in its own right, weaving the tales and legends of our ancestors into melodies— from love stories to battle songs. Each time I play, it feels like a journey into Iran’s rich history, carrying the echoes of the past into the present.
2. You have performed across the world. Can you share any standout moments or highlights from those performances that were particularly memorable for you?
The most outstanding memory I have is from the Sharq Taronalari Festival in Uzbekistan. It was an incredible gathering of some of the most renowned musical groups from around the world.
The moment our instruments resonated across the stage was truly magical for me. As the stage lights reflected the vibrant colors of our traditional attire, the performance became even more breathtaking. But the most unforgettable moment was when my country’s name was announced with pride, filling me with an overwhelming sense of honor.
And then, when our group was awarded the prize for commitment to traditions, it felt like a dream—a moment I will cherish forever.
3. How do you see the future of Persian music evolving, and what are your aspirations for the next generation of Dotar players?
A bright future awaits the rich music of Iran. With so many talented musicians who have successfully fused Iran’s authentic music with the modern musical world, this art is gaining more global recognition.
The number of Dotar players is growing every day, and that is truly heartwarming. It is a joy to see the children of Iran preserving their love for their folk music, appreciating its beauty and significance more and more with each passing day.
4. Looking ahead, what are your goals and aspirations as an artist? And do you have any upcoming projects that you're excited about?
Like any other artist, my greatest wish is to perform on stage for the people. My goal is to honor and respect my audience’s ears by presenting the best version of myself—whether through my voice, music, playing, or even the lyrics I sing.
Yes, I am currently recording my first album, and I am extremely excited about it. I am working on it with great care and dedication, spending a lot of time perfecting every detail. Each song will also be released separately. So far, the song “Faash” has been released, and soon, you will get to hear “Negah” along with its beautiful music video.
5. As your audience continues to grow, what message do you hope to convey through your music?
Music is the only universal language in the world. In my opinion, it is the most beautiful and easiest way to bring people together, regardless of their country or race. Music can also be the most powerful weapon of the people—a force for unity and understanding.
I hope that my music will always be a symbol of peace and tranquility for my listeners. At the same time, I hope to have introduced even a small part of the rich and beautiful ocean of Iranian music to the world.
