Early Years and Family History: Mohammad Reza Shajarian was born into a religious and musically inclined family. His father, Mehdi Shajarian, was his first music teacher, who trained him in Quranic recitation. This early training in vocal precision and melody had a profound influence on his future career as a singer.
Beginning of Career: Shajarian’s formal music training began at the age of 12 when he started studying under Ahmad Ebadi, a prominent setar player. His professional career began in the 1960s when he started performing on Iranian national radio. His unique vocal skills and profound understanding of Persian poetry quickly gained him recognition.
Rise to Stardom: By the 1970s, Shajarian had established himself as one of Iran’s leading traditional singers. His collaboration with influential musicians like Parviz Meshkatian, Hossein Alizadeh, and Kayhan Kalhor led to the creation of some of the most celebrated works in Persian classical music. Albums like “Bidad” and “Asti” became iconic, showcasing his mastery over traditional Persian music and poetry.
Hardships and Successes: The Iranian Revolution in 1979 brought significant challenges for artists in Iran. Shajarian, however, continued to perform and record, albeit under strict censorship. Despite the political turmoil, he remained a vocal critic of the government, especially regarding cultural and artistic freedom. This stance often put him at odds with authorities, but it also endeared him to many Iranians who saw him as a symbol of resistance and integrity.
Later Years and Legacy: In the 1990s and 2000s, Shajarian’s international fame grew. He performed worldwide, bringing Persian classical music to global audiences. His collaborations with his son, Homayoun Shajarian, also introduced his music to younger generations.
In the later years of his life, Shajarian battled kidney cancer, which led to his reduced public appearances. Despite his illness, his influence and legacy in Persian music remained strong.
Passing: Mohammad Reza Shajarian passed away on October 8, 2020, in Tehran, Iran. His death was widely mourned in Iran and by Persian music lovers worldwide.
Real Name: Mohammad Reza Shajarian
Date of Birth: September 23, 1940
Birth Place: Mashhad, Iran
Residence: Tehran, Iran (until his passing in 2020)
Profession: Singer, Musician, Composer, Calligrapher
Nationality: Iranian
Religion: Islam (Shia Muslim)
Partner: He was married twice, first to Farkhondeh Golafshan and then to Katayoun Khansari.
Father: Mehdi Shajarian
Mother: Akhundi Shajarian
Horoscope: Libra
Age: He was 80 years old at the time of his passing on October 8, 2020.