Besides hawking gear ranging from kotos to African shakeres, the Clarion also hosts a series of Friday night world music concerts, presenting musicians from Japan, China, India, and, well, all over the world. The musicians are often stars in their respective genres, nationally known in their native lands. Not surprisingly, the series has been an unqualified success since it was launched in 1997. Born in Iran, he was known as the master of the accordion for almost two decades until he was exiled to Germany for his political beliefs in 1985. His music has a dreamlike quality, blending Middle Eastern rhythms with a European melodic structure to create a sound unlike anything common to Western ears.
Most songs are slow and mournful, with drawn-out notes that tremble with emotion.
Anyone who thinks the accordion's possibilities are limited to German polkas and Mexican rancheras should spend some quality time with Rahman's new CD, Ana , on which he's accompanied by the Orchestra of Azerbaijani Folkloric Music. Despite a bout with cancer of the jaw that has left Rahman physically afflicted, his playing is undiminished. All rights reserved.