Maz Karandish

Maz Karandish is a devotee of world music, ranging from Raga and Maqam to Harmony and Jazz. Currently, he is most actively exploring North Indian, Persian, and Near Eastern instrumental and vocal music. Sitar, as played in the tradition of Vilayat Khan, is the instrument of choice when it comes to performance. Maz is a multi-instrumentalist and plays Near Eastern Oud, Persian TarTar, and Saz with the UCSB Middle Eastern Ensemble, along with a number of different plucked and woodwind instruments in various recording and performing projects. Eastern musical traditions seek to not only entertain the audience but also aim to take the listener and the performer on a journey of awareness. This journey, marked by contemplation, integration, and emotional exploration is what Maz seeks to create in the mind and heart of the listener. The audience members can also expect to gain information regarding the musical evolution of these ancient instruments and musical traditions.