Music on the Borderland: Remembering and Chronicling the 1979 Revolution's Shadow on Iranian Music (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9781738285556)

This research illuminates the sociopolitical backdrop of Iranian music from the 1979 Revolution through 1989, alongside the narratives of modern Iranian composers who have studied music, pursued careers as professional musicians, and engaged in composition. The study highlights their societal obstacles and their strategies for overcoming these challenges. It particularly emphasizes their personal, educational, and professional journeys and experiences. Moreover, the book showcases the events that motivated them and the critical moments in their careers that were transformative.

Keyan Emami, a Juno-nominated composer, is celebrated for his contemporary works inspired by Persian literature and various musical forms. Renowned for his orchestral, vocal, and piano compositions, his music has garnered international recognition, acclaimed as "eloquent and poignant" and "dark and moving." As the co-founder and artistic director of Key Music Productions and the ICOT collective, Emami brings a wealth of expertise to his compositions, drawing from his doctoral studies in composition at the University of Toronto. Alongside his illustrious career as a composer, Emami serves as an RCM Certified Music Teacher and Adjudicator at The Royal Conservatory College of Examiners, enriching the next generation of musicians with his passion and knowledge. Emami's monograph, Music on the Borderland, offers readers a captivating exploration of the complex and evolving landscape of Iranian music. Through meticulous research and personal insight, Emami invites readers to delve into the untold stories and creative journeys of Iranian composers, shedding light on the diverse influences that shape their artistic expression. This monograph marks the first part of a trilogy about Emami's lived experiences. Furthermore, Emami has composed two additional musical works as part of this trilogy: "Journey Inwards," an orchestral exploration reflecting the composer's inner psychological reality, and "The Black Fish," a musical interpretation of imaginative landscapes evoking strong emotions. Together, they offer a profound journey through themes of identity, resilience, and artistic expression. Explore more at www.keyanemami.com.