ABOUT CHARGAN

Chārgān is an ensemble consisting of four musicians, which was formed by Ehsan Zabihifar and Hamed Afshari in the spring of 2007 with the aim of performing works composed for a combination of the mentioned instruments. At first glance, this combination of Kamāncheh I, Kamāncheh II, a Qeychak, and a Baritone Qeychak apparently brings to mind – at least from the point of view of sound register and range – its similarity to its western version (the classical quartet). Although this analogy is not totally out of place, it is clear that the special features of these stringed bow Persian instruments – including timber, performance techniques, etc – all signify a major difference between these two types. Surely, the method of composition and arrangement of the works composed for the ensemble can affect the extent to which it, deliberately or inadvertently, resembles or diverges from the classical quartet. One of the most important aims and concerns of Chārgān is to achieve a premium group performance by paying special regard to the basic principles of performance besides constant and effective rehearsals.