Program Notes:

Shout My Name is a musical tribute to the enduring spirit of Iranian student movements. It draws inspiration from the iconic song "Shab-navard," composed by Mohammad-Reza Lotfi during the 1979 revolution.

Meaning "Night Wanderer," "Shab-navard" became a powerful symbol of resistance, with its melodies and lyrics echoing a deep yearning for freedom and change. In the years following the revolution, amid political turmoil and waves of protests, university students consistently reclaimed the song. Their voices, rising in unison, transformed it into a defiant declaration, a public "shout" against oppression and a call for accountability.

This act of singing, of reclaiming a revolutionary song, is a powerful form of defiance. By singing "Shab-navard" during protests, students aren't just repeating history; they are consciously resisting, connecting with the past while demanding a better future.

Shout My Name honors the bravery of these individuals, especially the university students, who have tirelessly fought for dignity, freedom, and justice in Iran. Their struggle, resilience, and unwavering hope are woven into the very fabric of this composition. It serves as a tribute to their enduring spirit, a recognition of their sacrifice, and an amplification of their voices, ensuring their names and stories resonate far beyond their homeland. This piece seeks to capture the essence of their struggle, their determination, and their unwavering belief in a future where their voices will finally be heard.