Presented by Small World Music and Link Music Lab

An evening of cool blues and deep grooves puts the powerful voices of Iranian women artists at the fore.

Featuring: Rana Farhan, Saba Zameni + beatmap and Zahra Habib (DJ set)

New York-based artist Rana Farhan sings in a cool bluesy style that transcends time and erases all borders, wowing listeners worldwide. With each new release Rana redefines a genre that seems to be hers alone. Her unique fusion of classical Persian poetry with contemporary jazz and blues has won audiences worldwide.

Saba Zameni is a multi-talented performer – a versatile and charismatic singer and dancer, she is as comfortable in Persian traditional music as she is in contemporary jazz. Saba’s progressive approach has won fans internationally over the course of 15+ years in music. With a voice capable of great beauty and power, she has performed in ensembles ranging from folk and gypsy jazz bands to collaborating in adventurous new settings.

For over two decades beatmap has explored the intersection of diverse musical forms. The group's sound draws on deep roots in funk, rock and jazz, merged with Persian traditions, Latin, African and Arabic rhythms, and electronica. The band is excited to combine their experience with talented emerging artists and newcomers as part of the evolving ‘Toronto sound'.

When it comes to music, writing, podcasting, broadcasting, and community, Zahra Habib flows like water in her processes. She started DJing at festivals, special events, opening for various acts coming through the city, and curating her own events. As a performer, her intention is to expand and advocate for the musical community in the city of London. She streams her show Lunar Rotations weekly to an international audience on Twitch.



The 2023 Small World Music Series is generously supported by TD Bank of Canada, the Government of Canada, Canada Council for the Arts, Ontario Arts Council, and the City of Toronto through the Toronto Arts Council.