In celebration of the 46th anniversary of the victory of the Islamic Revolution, with the aim of expanding knowledge and a deeper understanding of traditional Iranian music among the students of the College of Music, and developing cultural and artistic interactions between Iran and the Philippines, the concert of the traditional music group "Hamraz" was organized by the Cultural Section of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Department of Cooperation and Cultural Export Regulation of the Islamic Culture and Relations Organization, and in collaboration with the College of Music at the University of the Philippines (UP). The concert, held on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, took place in front of the College members and students of the university with the presence of the Cultural Counselor of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the President of the University of the Philippines, and the Dean of the College of Music.

At the beginning of the event, Dr. Maria Patricia Brillantes Silvestre, Dean of the College of Music at the University of the Philippines, welcomed the Cultural Attaché and the Hamraz Music Group. She expressed her honor in hosting an authentic Iranian traditional music ensemble and extended her gratitude for the opportunity to hold this concert at the University of the Philippines. She went on to say that performing musical works from different cultures and traditions creates opportunities for cultural exchange and the introduction of diverse musical styles. Such initiatives, she emphasized, contribute to enhancing students' and researchers' understanding, appreciation of cultural diversity, and musical knowledge.

She concluded her remarks by emphasizing that such concerts can expand music research, introduce new styles and techniques, and inspire students to perform diverse pieces. Additionally, she highlighted that these cultural exchanges deepen mutual understanding between the people of both countries.

 

 

Mr. Abolqasemi, the Cultural Counselor of our country, then welcomed the College members and students, expressing his gratitude to the President of the University of the Philippines, the Dean of the College of Music, and their esteemed colleagues for their collaboration in organizing the Iranian traditional music concert. He expressed hope that hosting artistic programs such as concerts would play a significant role in advancing the art and science of music among students. Furthermore, he emphasized that such initiatives serve as a positive step in strengthening cultural relations, fostering a deeper mutual understanding between the people of both countries.

He continued by stating, “Today, we have gathered to celebrate the 46th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution and to introduce you to Iran’s authentic traditional music, one of the most significant and rich cultural heritages of our country. Traditional music is deeply rooted in the history, culture, and customs of a society, passed down through generations and preserved over time. Therefore, safeguarding and revitalizing traditional music is of great importance, as it helps maintain a community’s cultural identity and strengthens the sense of belonging among its people.”

 

 

The Cultural Counselor then provided an introduction to the Hamraz Traditional Music Group, led by Mr. Reza Ghodsi. He explained that since its establishment in 2003, the group has been dedicated to preserving, revitalizing, and promoting authentic Iranian music, relying on deep musical knowledge. In concluding his speech, he once again expressed his gratitude for the opportunity given to the Cultural Section to present a part of Iran’s rich traditional music—an essential component of the country’s cultural heritage—to the students of the College of Music through this concert.

 

 

Next, Mr. Anjelo Jimenez, the President of the University of the Philippines, who has a deep appreciation for Iranian culture and art, made an unexpected appearance at the event. The Dean of the College of Music warmly welcomed him and invited him to share his thoughts on the occasion.

The President of the University of the Philippines expressed his pleasure at the presence of the Cultural Counselor and the Hamraz Traditional Music Group at the university. He stated that UP actively collaborates with organizations, embassies, and diplomatic institutions in hosting various academic, cultural, and artistic programs, including festivals, exhibitions, and workshops. He further emphasized the university’s readiness to engage in similar collaborations with the Cultural Section of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

He continued by sharing his background as a former diplomat in Kuwait, Iraq, and Jordan, mentioning his deep familiarity with Iran’s ancient culture and historical landmarks in cities like Shiraz and Isfahan. He also expressed his fondness for Iranian cuisine, recalling how he and his wife became enthusiasts of Persian food during their time in the Middle East. He noted that the university has previously hosted music groups from various countries, including Italy, the United States, Ireland, Germany, and Africa. Given this experience, he was delighted to welcome the Iranian traditional music group to the university. Upon learning of their arrival at the College of Music, he made time in his busy schedule to attend the event and witness the performance of authentic Iranian traditional music, which has deep cultural and historical roots. Following the university president’s remarks, Mr. Abolghasemi once again expressed his gratitude for the warm words and appreciation. He then introduced the members of the Hamraz Traditional Music Group and invited the university’s president, faculty, and students to enjoy the captivating sounds of authentic Iranian music performed by the ensemble.

 

 

It is worth mentioning that after performing several pieces in different Persian musical modes (dastgah), each member of the ensemble provided explanations about the instruments used in the concert, which captured the students' interest. At the conclusion of the event, the university president expressed his admiration, stating, "I have a deep appreciation for your country’s culture because Iran has an ancient history and civilization. The message I received from your music today is that traditional Iranian music is filled with profound human emotions and spirituality, making it truly remarkable and praiseworthy."

 

The program concluded with the College of Music at the University of the Philippines (UP) presenting a certificate of appreciation to the leader of the Hamraz Traditional Music Group, as well as a gift from the Cultural Counselor of Iran to the UP President.

It was also agreed that, after coordinating with the university president’s office, a joint meeting would be held to explore academic and cultural collaboration opportunities in line with the newly signed university cooperation agreement between the University of Tehran and the University of the Philippines. This proposal was warmly welcomed by the university president.

At the end of the event, students were treated to refreshments, and the Cultural Counselor, along with members of the Hamraz ensemble, visited the College of Music’s museum.