Sneak Peek: Debut of New Song Cycle by Pouya Hamidi at World Premiere

Toronto Summer Music will host the world premiere of a newly commissioned song cycle by composer Pouya Hamidi. The Canadian Art Song Project selected Hamidi’s work, titled “I Will Greet the Sun Again,” which will debut on August 1 at Toronto Summer Music.

“I Will Greet the Sun Again” delves into themes of family, intimate love, and the night using poetry from four women writers from Iran and the Iranian diaspora. The cycle embarks on a journey starting in darkness and culminates in light, symbolizing hope and transformation.

Pouya Hamidi, a Toronto-based composer, is known for co-founding the Ladom Ensemble, blending Persian and Western musical influences. His musical background includes studying piano and composition at the University of Toronto and earning a Masters of Sound Recording from McGill University. Hamidi’s diverse musical influences span traditional Iranian music and composers like Olivier Messiaen, György Ligeti, and Maurice Ravel.

The song cycle incorporates the works of four Iranian women poets to give voice to their experiences and struggles. Sareh Farmand’s poetry in “Pistachios in My Pocket” reflects her family’s escape from Iran to Canada, while Mehri Yalfani’s poignant verses cover her life in Iran and Canada as an engineer and writer. Forugh Farrokhzad’s modern poetry challenges societal norms, and Sholeh Wolpé’s translations bring these unique voices to a wider audience.

The concert on August 1 will also feature Mendelssohn’s String Octet in E-flat Major, Op. 20, performed by mentors at TSM and a world premiere of Robert Rival’s String Quartet No. 2. Rival, inspired by the Canadian landscape and literature, creates contemporary tonal compositions heard across Canada and beyond.

Additional performers at the event include Aaron Schwebel, Barry Shiffman, Shane Kim, Yura Lee, Keith Hamm, Sharon Wei, Leana Rutt, and Song Hee Lee. The diverse lineup promises an evening of captivating music and poetic storytelling.

Don’t miss the chance to witness the premiere of Pouya Hamidi’s captivating song cycle alongside other world-class performances on August 1 at Toronto Summer Music. This unique concert celebrates artistry, diversity, and the transformative power of music.