Romantic Inspired Improvisation

In the beautiful St Mark’s ArtSpace, Arash Bazrafshan improvises pieces of piano music inspired by a set of four pieces of art provided by his sister, Roza, which sit next to the piano. While this may sound strange, it is utterly enchanting, although sometimes the interpretation of the images seems misguided.

Arash only performs four improvisations and although it is uncomfortable for the audience to sit and wait in silence in between the sections, the music more than makes up for it. Fantastically well thought-out and beautifully crafted, each piece of music leads the mind into an overwork of creativity, thoughtfulness and calm, before being lifted gently back out before the next one. However, sometimes the music lacked complete connection to his sister’s images. The pictures are often light, bright and hopeful, with rising swans, dawn skies and water, but at times the music became melancholic instead of optimistic. However, the way the music grew organically with time was spectacular.

Put together, the four tunes formed a unique quartet of musical pieces within the same musical style. It is a shame that it could not have been recorded, but perhaps it was the transient nature of it that added to the beauty of it all. There is another chance to see him perform at the end of the month. It is a sensational way to spend an early evening.

Reviews by David Levesley

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The Blurb

Edinburgh-based pianist, Arash Bazrafshan, debuts at the Festival Fringe this year with a solo, improvised performance. The show comprises four improvisations, each inspired by an original piece of artwork.

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