Dissident Composer Mehdi Rajabian Can't Leave Iran, but His Music Is Traveling the World

Table of Contents

1. Key Highlights
2. Introduction
3. A Composer’s Rise Amidst Turmoil
4. The Upcoming Concert in Zurich
5. Rajabian’s Journey from Solitary to Symphony
6. A Bridge to the West: Collaborations and New Projects
7. The Global Context: Music as a Weapon of Resistance
8. Looking to the Future: Rajabian's Ongoing Struggles and Aspirations
9. FAQ

Key Highlights

• Global Performance: On September 17, 2025, four of Mehdi Rajabian's pieces will debut in Zurich, highlighting his growing influence despite being barred from leaving Iran.
• Cultural Significance: Rajabian's music symbolizes resistance to oppressive regimes, particularly given his past arrests for composing music featuring female vocalists.
• Collaborative Ventures: Rajabian is also working with the hip-hop family music group Alphabet Rockers on a project that aims to transcend cultural boundaries.

Introduction

Mehdi Rajabian's journey as a composer is a potent narrative of resilience, creativity, and defiance against authoritarianism. In a surprising twist, the Iranian musician, who cannot leave his homeland due to government restrictions, will see four of his compositions performed live for the first time in Zurich, Switzerland, on September 17, 2025. This concert not only marks an important milestone in Rajabian’s career but also amplifies the ongoing dialogue around the role of art in resisting political oppression. How does one compose freedom when shackled by the chains of censorship? This article delves into Rajabian's tumultuous past, the significance of this concert, and his collaborative efforts with global musicians, demonstrating that while borders may restrict a body, art knows no confines.

A Composer’s Rise Amidst Turmoil

Mehdi Rajabian's artistic journey has always existed at the intersection of music and resistance. Born in 1988 in the city of Amol, Iran, Rajabian showed an early passion for music, particularly focused on traditional Persian instruments like the setar. However, he soon became aware of the limitations imposed by the Islamic Republic of Iran, particularly on musical expression.

His artistic expressions began to draw the ire of the Iranian authorities when he composed music for female voices—an act deemed unacceptable in Iran. His opposition to the government's authoritarian grip on artistic expression led to his first arrest in 2013, where he spent three months in solitary confinement. His escalating conflicts with the regime culminated in additional incarcerations, significantly impacting both his health and his creative output.

The Upcoming Concert in Zurich

Rajabian's works, set to be performed in Zurich's Neumünster Church by André Bellmont and the Ensemble Stringendo, include “An Epitaph on the Tomb of Companions,” “Whip on a Lifeless Body,” “Murmur of the Naked Nun,” and “Coup of Gods.” These pieces radiate his potent artistic vision and socially charged messages. Bellmont, who has dedicated substantial effort to bringing Rajabian's works to life, described him as “a real artist,” emphasizing that true artistry does not submit to oppressive regimes.

“The concert serves as a juxtaposition to the suppression faced by such artists in their home countries,” says Bellmont. “It is remarkable that a composer known for challenging societal norms is now to have his work presented in a venue rich with historical significance.”

This realization brings forth a compelling irony, particularly since women were historically barred from singing in church—a stark contrast to Rajabian's reasons for persecution back home. His music, filled with emotional depth, is a testimony to the yearning for freedom among artists under authoritarian rule.

Rajabian’s Journey from Solitary to Symphony

Rajabian's imprisonment and subsequent health issues are vital backdrop stories that enrich our understanding of his music. After a hunger strike in 2016 aimed at protesting his unjust imprisonment, he was released on parole in 2017. Rajabian’s struggle was not just for personal freedom; it also symbolized a larger fight for artistic expression under an oppressive regime.

In 2021, Rajabian released his symphony Coup of Gods, produced in collaboration with Harvey Mason Jr., a prominent figure in the Recording Academy. At the time, he reflected on the toll of his experiences, stating, “My body and soul have been damaged. I lost 15 kilograms of weight, and 40% of my vision and my joints swelled because of the hunger strike.” Through this lens, Rajabian positions himself not merely as a composer but as a revolutionary intent on showcasing the indomitable spirit of artistic expression.

A Bridge to the West: Collaborations and New Projects

In a significant departure from his orchestral and traditional style, Rajabian is exploring new musical territories by collaborating with the Alphabet Rockers, a hip-hop family music group from Oakland, California, known for its socially conscious messages. Co-leaders Tommy Soulati Shepherd and Kaitlin McGaw express their excitement about working with Rajabian on a song-in-progress titled “Shades,” intended for a global project that aims to address broader societal issues through accessible music.

According to McGaw, “We strive to show solidarity with and amplification of those most marginally punished by the culture wars. We want to create communities rooted in belonging; that’s human rights at its core.” Shepherd echoed this sentiment, adding the opportunity to work with Rajabian offers “a gift to everyone”—a space where artists can transcend physical borders and connect through the universal language of music.

Rajabian appreciates this new venture, stating, “I think something good will happen—an exciting album different from previous styles that I have experienced.” This collaboration signals a bridge between diverse musical traditions and a collective vision of unity amidst strife.

The Global Context: Music as a Weapon of Resistance

Rajabian's story cannot be divorced from the broader context of how music has often served as a weapon against oppression. Many artists across the globe have faced persecution for their creative expressions. From Victor Jara in Chile to Pussy Riot in Russia, musicians have been imprisoned, exiled, or worse for their rebellion against tyranny. Rajabian’s struggle, however, embodies a contemporary era where the internet and global collaboration allow artists to reach audiences beyond their immediate geographic or political confines.

As more artists and organizations rally behind voices like Rajabian's, the potential for change grows exponentially. This current climate of political unrest has galvanized not only musicians but also audiences—encouraging them to engage with art that challenges the status quo. More than ever, music has proven to be a powerful medium that can promote understanding, empathy, and ultimately change.

Looking to the Future: Rajabian's Ongoing Struggles and Aspirations

While Rajabian anticipates the glory and validation of his music being performed in Zurich, he remains acutely aware of the ongoing risks associated with his craft. He has publicly stated, “I have never been able to have a concert in my life, and I will have to watch it remotely,” underscoring the painful irony of witnessing his hard work unfold from afar due to government restrictions.

Additionally, Rajabian’s narrative reflects deeper issues concerning the rights of artists, particularly in authoritarian regimes. Authorities continue to scrutinize and control music, especially when it showcases female voices or challenges established norms. With his work gaining international recognition, observers wonder if this will influence the treatment of artists in Iran. If Rajabian’s music can stir emotions and evoke solidarity across borders, can it also prompt systemic change within Iran itself?

FAQ

Why is Mehdi Rajabian unable to leave Iran?

Mehdi Rajabian is barred from leaving Iran due to restrictions imposed by the Iranian government, stemming from his political activism and music that challenges state norms.

What type of music does Mehdi Rajabian compose?

Rajabian composes contemporary orchestral works, often infused with elements from traditional Persian music, focusing on themes of freedom and resistance.

Where will Rajabian's music be performed?

Rajabian's music will be performed at the Neumünster Church in Zurich, Switzerland, on September 17, 2025.

How has Rajabian's imprisonment affected his health?

His experiences, including a 40-day hunger strike, have taken a significant toll on his health, affecting his physical condition and vision.

What unique collaborative project is Rajabian involved in?

Rajabian is collaborating with the Alphabet Rockers, a hip-hop family music group from Oakland, on an upcoming song titled "Shades," aimed at creating a broader cultural dialogue.

What does Rajabian hope to achieve with his music?

Rajabian aims to use his music as a form of resistance against oppression, to convey messages of freedom, and to build solidarity across cultures through artistic expression.

As Mehdi Rajabian prepares for his music's debut stage performance, it remains clear that his journey transcends the individual artist's narrative—it speaks to the universal plight of artists striving for freedom in oppressive regimes and the timeless power of music to connect and inspire change across borders.