Composed by Omid Shayan and blending Iranian melodies and rhythms with western classical orchestration and Jazz improvisation; Safar is a suite for symphony orchestra and jazz quartet. The work tells the story of his parents’ escape from Iran to Australia, and the sacrifice, uncertainty and danger they faced during this period of revolution and war. But it is not a singular story. Safar is about the experiences of millions of people around the world whose lives have been irrevocably changed by conflict, displacement, and the search for a new beginning.

Featuring:

Dr. Andrea Keller (piano),

Omid Shayan (saxophone),

Tamara Murphy (bass),

Ronny Ferella (drums),

and the Victorian Youth Symphony Orchestra.

Made possible by the Creative Victoria and the 2025 Creative Projects Fund