Bio
Masoud Rezaei is an Iranian award-winning composer and Setar (Persian lute) player based in Los Angeles, California. Born in 1986 in Iran, Masoud began learning the Setar at the age of eleven. He pursued formal education in music and earned his B.A. in Iranian Traditional Music Performance. Throughout his studies, he had the privilege of being mentored by renowned masters such as Zolfonoun, Babaei, and Shoari.
Masoud embarked on a personal musical journey that culminated in the release of his debut album, “Nothingness,” in 2015. A piece from this album was nominated for Best World Music at the Hollywood Music in Media Awards (HMMA) in 2018. This album featured collaborations with distinguished musicians, including Master Navid Afghah, Tony Overwater, Shahram Gholami, and Kiarash Etemadseifi.
In May 2019, Masoud released his second album, “Until,” which reflects the challenging period he endured while protesting during the Green Movement in Iran, leading to imprisonment and other severe repercussions. The album, featuring the acclaimed musician Mohsen Namjoo, won the 18th Independent Music Awards for Best World Traditional Album and the Global Music Awards in both the World Music and Album categories.
Masoud Rezaei has performed numerous concerts alongside prominent musicians in both Iran and the United States, showcasing his exceptional talent and dedication to Iranian traditional music.
“Without music, life would be a mistake.”
― Friedrich Nietzsche
©2024 by Masoud Rezaei