Draft:Arsha Kaviani

Arsha Kaviani (born July 13, 1990) is a classical pianist, composer, and improviser. Born and raised in Dubai by Iranian parents, Kaviani is known for his unique approach to classical music, combining traditional performances with improvisations and original compositions.

Early life and education

Arsha Kaviani was born in Dubai in 1990 to Iranian parents who left Iran in the 1970s. His father worked in a general trading business, while his mother focused on raising Kaviani and his brother. Kaviani began piano lessons at age six, inspired by his brother’s lessons, teaching himself to transcribe symphonies and concertos.

Kaviani performed with the Dubai Chamber Orchestra at age 14. He attended Chetham’s School of Music in Manchester from 2006, studying under Murray McLachlan and winning the Concerto Competition in his first term. He continued his studies at the Royal Northern College of Music, where he was mentored by prominent figures including Vladimir Jurowski and Kristjan Järvi, and received the Alfred Clay Prize for Piano.

Career

Arsha Kaviani's career combines traditional classical performances with innovative approaches to music. After completing his studies at Chetham’s School of Music and the Royal Northern College of Music, he furthered his education at the Royal College of Music and Trinity Laban Conservatoire. Kaviani has received mentorship from renowned artists such as Stephen Hough, Daniel Barenboim, Lang Lang, and Peter Donohoe.

Kaviani has performed at prestigious venues worldwide, collaborating with orchestras such as Tonhalle Zurich, The Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, and Orchestre Symphonie de Bretagne. Following his virtuosic transcription of Rachmaninoff's Second Concerto's Moderato for solo piano, he was invited by Classic FM to perform the work with the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic at the Royal Albert Hall. Kaviani has also played solo at Cadogan Hall and given world premieres of his preludes there. He has been named a Steinway Artist and listed among the 30 Under 30 Best Pianists in the World by International Piano Magazine.

Kaviani incorporates his compositions and audience-prompted improvisations into his performances. He aims to make classical music accessible to a broader audience through his engaging presentation style, both in live performances and media appearances.

Accents & Echoes

Arsha Kaviani’s debut album, Accents & Echoes, is set to be released on June 28, 2024, under his label SRSLY. The album features piano transcriptions and improvisations of classical, film, indie, and trip-hop music, including works by Bach, Rachmaninoff, Massive Attack, and Portishead.

Personal life and influences

Kaviani’s musical influences include a range of genres from classical to rock. His artistic vision blends classical, pop, jazz, and traditional Persian music, creating performances and compositions of unique originality. Kaviani also composes music for private clients through his production company, Maison Musique Kaviani, and has collaborated on interdisciplinary projects with figures like photographer Damon Baker and author Robert Greene.

Media appearances and recognition

Kaviani has been featured in various media outlets, including Classic FM and BBC Radio 3. In a November 2023 Classic FM feature, UK Chancellor Jeremy Hunt praised Kaviani’s performance at the Royal Albert Hall.