Sydney composer Shervin Mirzeinali is fascinated by the process of “creating something from nothing”.

“[That] idea or a feeling that’s so abstract you can’t put it into words, and then turning it into sound. When words fall short, music lets me express things I couldn’t otherwise communicate. For me, composing is about bridging that gap. It’s a challenge, but also a deeply rewarding way to connect with people on an emotional level.”

Shervin Mirzeinali. Photo © Sasha Shahrabi

In February, Mirzeinali will see the premiere of his brand new work, Nazri at Glebe’s Local Editions on 7-9 February. The work combines percussion, dance and electronics to evoke what he calls his “warmest childhood memories” – those of family and friends gathering together to prepare food. In doing so, also he honours the Persian tradition of communal giving and sharing food.

“For me, Nazri isn’t just about the tradition of cooking and sharing food. It is the sense of community, the teamwork, and that everyone pitched in,” he tells Limelight. “As a kid, my favourite part was taking trays of food to our neighbours, knocking on their doors, and sharing what we’d...