On the eve of the 46th anniversary of the victory of the Islamic Revolution, as part of the implementation of another provision of the cultural exchange program, a traditional Iranian music concert was held at University of Makati through the efforts of the Cultural Section of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the General Directorate of Cooperation and Cultural Export Regulation of the Islamic Culture and Relations Organization, and in collaboration with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts of the Philippines and Makati University. The Hamraz music group, led by Reza Ghodsi, performed in the university's 350-seat hall on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM. The event was attended by the Ambassador, the Cultural Attaché, diplomats from various embassies, officials from the National Commission for Culture and the Arts of the Philippines, the president and vice presidents of Makati University, several members of the Catholic Church, and members of the Iranian community in the Philippines.

The program began with the screening of short video clips showcasing the tourist attractions and scenic spots of Iran. This was followed by the playing of the national anthems of both countries. The event host, Dr. Samadi, then welcomed the attendees and extended his congratulations on the 46th anniversary of the victory of the Islamic Revolution. He proceeded to introduce the various segments of the program and invited Dr. Ramos, the president University of Makati, to deliver his remarks.

The president of the university expressed his delight at the opportunity to host an authentic traditional Iranian music concert and extended his gratitude to the Cultural Section of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran for coordinating this cultural event at University of Makati. He stated that with the recent establishment of the university’s International Relations Office, they are honored to host this Iranian music concert. He emphasized that such an event could serve as a gateway for broader collaborations with cultural institutions, embassies, and international organizations. He also reaffirmed the university’s commitment to expanding these kinds of cultural and artistic exchanges. The university president stressed that it is through such interactions that people from different countries grow closer to one another, which is precisely what they aim to achieve. He further expressed the university’s willingness to collaborate in various academic, cultural, and artistic fields following the signing of a scientific and cultural cooperation agreement with the Cultural Section. In closing, he expressed his hope that the guests in attendance would enjoy the traditional Iranian music concert.

Mr. Abolghasemi, the Cultural Counselor of Iran, then welcomed the art-loving guests and extended his congratulations on the 46th anniversary of the victory of the Islamic Revolution. He expressed his gratitude for the valuable cooperation and participation of University of Makati and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts of the Philippines in facilitating the organization of this traditional Iranian music concert as part of the implementation of another provision of the cultural exchange program. He also expressed his hope that holding such cultural and artistic events would serve as a positive step in strengthening and enhancing cultural relations, with the aim of fostering a deeper understanding between the peoples of the two countries.

The Cultural Section of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in the Philippines, referring to the history of music in Iran, stated that traditional music is one of the most significant and richest cultural heritages of any society, deeply rooted in its history, culture, and customs. He explained that this type of music has been passed down from past generations and preserved by various generations over time. Traditional music consists of melodies, rhythms, and instruments that are uniquely tied to a specific region or culture. He emphasized the importance of preserving and reviving traditional music, as it plays a crucial role in maintaining a society’s cultural identity and strengthening its sense of belonging.

Iranian traditional music, consisting of modes, melodies, and vocal styles, has been passed down orally through generations in Iranian culture for thousands of years, dating back to before the birth of Christ. What remains today are the most harmonious, simple, and comprehensible aspects of this rich musical heritage. A significant part of Central Asia, as well as Afghanistan, Pakistan, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Turkey, and Greece, has been influenced by this music, with each region contributing in its own way to its development and evolution.

He continued by stating that the Hamraz Traditional Music Group was established in November 2003 with the aim of preserving, promoting, and reviving authentic Iranian music. Initially, the group focused on reconstructing past musical works, later expanding its efforts by drawing on the musical expertise of its members. The group aspires to continue expanding and nurturing this rich art form across the vast and treasured land of Iran.

Hamraz has performed numerous programs in various festivals and concerts worldwide, recorded albums, and introduced many talented artists to the music community. In closing, Mr. Abolghasemi once again expressed his gratitude for the opportunity given to the Cultural Section of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Manila to showcase a part of Iran’s authentic traditional music—one of the most significant components of Iran’s cultural heritage—to students and enthusiasts of Iranian culture. He reaffirmed the Cultural Section’s readiness to collaborate on joint programs aimed at strengthening and expanding scientific, cultural, artistic, and religious relations between the two Asian countries. Following his remarks, he introduced the members of the Hamraz Traditional Music Group and invited the distinguished guests and students to enjoy the enchanting melodies of authentic Iranian music performed by the group.

It is worth mentioning that the performance by the Hamraz Traditional Music Group was met with an enthusiastic reception from the audience. The group received repeated applause from Iranian expatriates and students, filling the grand university hall with an atmosphere of joy. Even after the concert ended, Filipino students requested encore performances of selected traditional pieces and instrumental solos, which were gladly performed.

At the end of the event, the university president had a brief conversation with Mr. Esmaeilzadeh, the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran, and Mr. Abolghasemi, the Cultural Attaché. He expressed his delight and satisfaction with the excellent performance of Iranian music and the efforts made in organizing such a beautiful concert. Guests were then treated to a reception. It is also worth noting that, alongside the concert, a photo exhibition showcasing Iran’s tourist attractions was held, which drew great interest from the students.