The program for Sydney’s second Iranian Music Festival has been announced. Opening October 23, this year’s festival promises a suite of rich musical experiences, with nine performances spanning traditional and contemporary Iranian music and featuring Australian and Iranian-Australian artists.

ZÖJ. Photo supplied

Last year’s inaugural festival attracted over 1,000 attendees. Building on that success, the 2024 edition will showcase an even broader array of genres, including jazz, contemporary, experimental and electronic music. Headliners include Australian Music Award winners the Eishan Ensemble, ZÖJ, and CozyMinimal. With over 35 artists from diverse backgrounds, the festival also offers a platform for emerging voices to introduce innovative sounds.

Hosted at Haymarket Creative, opening night will feature a performance by CozyMinimal combining traditional Persian instruments with live calligraphy by Reza Taghipour, a collaboration that aims to create a reflective and healing atmosphere, setting the tone for the festival’s eclectic musical journey.