Today, the VOA Persian language service aired the first episode of it 10-part television series on the multicultural sounds of New York City’s music scene. Titled “NY Harmony,” the series is set at one of the city’s popular music venues, The Red Pavilion, while exploring a different music style in each episode.
The program showcases live performances and interviews with musicians from many genres. Featured music styles include bossa nova; ethno jazz; “shidaiqu,” or Shanghai jazz; “rebetiko” or Greek folk music; klezmer jazz; birdland jazz; “makossa” or Cameroonian pop music; tango; and electronic music.
This series celebrates the freedom of expression in the U.S. that most Persian artists cannot afford under Iranian censorship.
“For decades, New York City has thrived as an international hub for media, music and the arts,” said VOA VOA Persian Chief Leili Soltani. “Now, VOA audiences in Iran and in the Farsi-speaking region will have access to the city’s multi-faceted music scene on their television sets and wherever VOA programs stream.”
The interviews and introductions are conducted in English for easy integration across VOA’s language services, allowing for voice-overs and subtitles.
Watch the “NY Harmony” trailer here.
