Artist of the Week: Zara Houshmand

On March 10, 2024, Music of Remembrance will present the world premiere of “Phoenix,” a work that was inspired by the 16-year-old Nika Shakarami who joined other Iranian girls and citizens in protesting the death of Mahsa Amini and who died in the custody of the Iranian morality police after appearing in public without the mandated head covering. The new {…}

World Premiere of ‘Phoenix: A Musical Testimony of Women’s Rights Struggle in Iran’ Opens For International Women’s Day

The story of Nika Shakarami’s story has inspired a new musical work, written by the Iranian American creative team of composer Sahba Aminikia and librettist Zara Houshmand. “Phoenix,” (or “Qaqnus” in Persian) receives its world premiere on March 10 at Benaroya Hall in Seattle. On Sept. 20, 2022, 16-year-old Nika Shakarami joined other Iranian girls and citizens in protesting the {…}