Crossdorf übers Jahr: AwA (West-östlicher Weltmusikjazz)

AwAis an intercultural dialogue that pushes the boundaries of traditional musical genres and blends them together. Composed of four musicians who share a passion for music and cultural diversity, the band combinesPersian and Western elementsinto a unique musical style.

The band members areOmeed Khademsaba (clarinet), Sajad Goodarzi (oud), Steffen Hanschmann (percussion), and Pejman Ghanbari (composition, arrangement, piano). Together, they have developed a unique musical vision that allows them to continually explore new musical worlds.

Pejman Ghanbariis a composer, pianist, and founder of the group AwA. He is a contemporary musician who was born in Iran and lives in Germany. Even in his earlier compositions, he sought to bridge the gap between modern musical elements and the rich melodies of Persia. His understanding of the Persian radif system helps him bring this vision to life.

Omeed Khademsaba, the clarinetist, is at home in the worlds of jazz and free jazz. He is a trained musician and has written several compositions for theater and film scores. He has been playing clarinet in the group AwA since August 2017.

Sajad Goodarzibegan his musical journey with the flamenco guitar and later studied cello at the Tehran Conservatory. He has performed in renowned orchestras and furthered his studies at the Prayner Conservatory in Vienna, where he also explored Iranian music and instruments such as the oud.

Steffen Hanschmannstarted playing drums at a young age. Later, he studied under Ricardo Espinosa, John Santos, Conny Sommer, and Banana (Timbalada).

During his study stays in Ghana and Senegal, he deepened his knowledge of West African percussion. He has served asa percussionist for Max Herre, Die Fantastischen Vier, Silly Walks, and others. In addition to his experience with flamenco, he has spent many years working with Afro-Cuban and Brazilian rhythms.