Sahba Aminikia

Full biography Sahba Aminikia

Sahba Aminikia is an Iranian-American composer, pianist, and educator born in 1981 in Tehran, Iran. He is known for creating music that is inspired by his personal history, culture, and his experiences living in countries such as Turkey and the United States.

Aminikia began playing the piano when he was six years old and went on to study music both in Iran and the United States. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Composition from the Tehran Conservatory of Music, a Master's degree in Music Composition from San Francisco Conservatory of Music, and a Ph.D. in Music Composition from the University of California, Los Angeles.

Aminikia's compositions are often a reflection of his personal story and the social and political issues that affect ordinary people. He has composed music for various ensembles, including chamber groups, orchestras, and choral groups. His works have been featured in performances at numerous venues in the United States, Europe, and the Middle East.

Some of his notable works include "Sound, Only Sound Remains" which is a piece that explores the traumatic experiences of refugees and immigrants. Another notable work is "Sahba's Suite" which is a collection of pieces for piano that are often described as whimsical and playful yet emotionally charged.

Apart from creating music, Aminikia is also an educator and a mentor. He teaches courses in music composition, music theory, and music history at several colleges and universities in the United States.

In addition to the many accolades he has received for his work, Aminikia has also been recognized as a MacDowell Colony Fellow, a Yaddo Fellow, and a Fulbright Scholar. His music continues to captivate audiences worldwide and is celebrated for its unique blend of personal experiences, cultural influences, and social commentary.