An ensemble of 1+, Tan Haw is a project by Iranian musician and songwriter, Mani Nilchiani and collaborators. Tan Haw blends Iranian folk and classical music with influences from a variety of contemporary genres such as ambient, electronica & psychedelic rock. Tan Haw’s sound is deeply rooted in the microtonal repertoire of Iranian music (Radif), and borrows from its rich traditional lineage of Improvisation techniques, modal structures, melodic and rhythmic patterns. In orchestration, the Persian Setâr and vocals often take center stage, supported by fretless guitars, synthesizers, samples and live instruments.

 

Featuring:
Mani Nilchiani on the Setâr & Vocals
Phil Mayer on percussion

 

Mani Nilchiani is a creative leader, interdisciplinary designer, technologist & musician passionate about creating meaningful, human-centered products, services and communities.

In his music, he explores the notion of home as an evolving in-transit space of memory. He uses elements of Iranian classical music (Radif) to retrace, explore and retell a story of displacement while researching future-facing sonic spaces.

In 2018, Mani co-founded Disco Tehran, an internationally acclaimed live event series & cultural platform, and co-led this initiative until 2023: creating community, producing and performing live events, releasing music and launching various digital products including an online cinema & an independent streaming service.

Mani has performed in venues such as MoMA PS1, Public Records, Barbes, Symphony Space & DROM. His work has been featured in NY Times, NY Mag, Vice Noisey, CNN & It’s Nice That among other publications. His music has been published by Remix ⟷ Culture.

Photo Credit: Cyrus Moussavi & Brittany Nugent