Faramarz Payvar's masterful exploration of the santur, Iran's ancient struck zither, captures the instrument's crystalline resonance and meditative depth. This recording showcases the santur's delicate interplay of melody and rhythm, with Payvar's virtuosic technique drawing out both bright, shimmering tones and warm, resonant passages. The cithare en Iran series presents traditional Persian music through a lens of refined artistry, blending classical santur repertoire with improvisational flourishes. Essential listening for those drawn to Middle Eastern instrumental music and the nuanced beauty of acoustic string traditions.