Hami Keivan MM ‘19: Bridging Iranian Roots and Jazz Fusion on a Global Stage

Hami Keivan MM ‘19 is an Iranian pianist, composer, music instructor, and producer in contemporary music. He has collaborated with acclaimed musicians, such as Dave Weckl, John Patitucci, and Tom Kennedy. His compositions span a range of ensembles, from intimate trios to larger experimental formats. Driven by a passion for musical exchange, he actively seeks out cross-border collaborations to bring his work to new audiences worldwide.

Growing up in Isfahan, Iran, where access to contemporary music education was limited, Keivan relied heavily on self-study to develop his passion for contemporary music. He released his first album, The Colors, in 2013, blending Iranian instruments with cello and electronic textures which established his unique musical style fusing modern, electronic, and traditional sounds. In 2014, two pieces from his album, “Red” and “Black,” won second place among 120 countries represented at the Fajr Music Festival in Tehran, Iran.

For the talented composer, completing his Master of Music in Contemporary Performance (Production Concentration (CPPD) at Berklee Valencia was a transformative experience, broadening his perspective and opening doors to collaborate with musicians from around the world. “I was inspired by the rich musical experiences of my peers, which allowed me to perform in various styles, including Indian music, Polish music, and modern jazz from the United States.”

Courses such as the Contemporary Ensemble, offered at Berklee Valencia, played a key role in refining his artistic voice and expanding his musical horizons. “I also learned a great deal about jazz from Berklee Valencia professors like Gary Willis and Perico Sambeat,” he added. Rooted in jazz fusion, his work spans a wide range of formats, including symphony orchestras, trios, quartets, quintets, solo piano, and ensembles that incorporate traditional Iranian instruments.

Today, Keivan has formed a new band and is actively composing. His latest work-in-progress, “The Steps,” is a jazz fusion trio. Alongside this, he is developing a larger-scale project that involves jazz piano accompanied by a symphony orchestra that is set for release in September. The work is based on 12 of his original compositions, newly arranged for jazz piano, symphony orchestra, drums, and bass. He plans to record the project in London or Russia, followed by a live concert showcasing the full repertoire.

Reflecting on the foundation that shaped his artistic journey, Keivan credits his time at Berklee Valencia for giving him the skills and conviction to pursue such expansive projects. “Having the opportunity to perform my compositions in forums and receive constructive feedback from professors and peers was invaluable for my growth,” he said. “Collaborating with talented classmates was so important and also helped me refine my compositions and explore new creative avenues.” 

As he continues to bridge cultures and genres through his music, Keivan offers thoughtful advice to fellow musicians blending traditional and modern styles. “I believe that a deep understanding of jazz and contemporary music is essential for successfully blending these styles.” Beyond composition, he highlights the importance of collaboration. As a producer, he believes that understanding who should bring a piece to life is just as critical as writing it. “Just as a film director selects the right actors for a movie, choosing the right performers based on their technical skills and creativity is vital,” he explained.

Keivan’s career reflects a wider movement in contemporary music that values tradition as a foundation for innovation. While staying deeply rooted in his cultural heritage, he continues to expand the language of jazz. “The intricate details of Iranian music can serve as a rich source for fusion with jazz.” With each composition, Keivan reaffirms his role as an artist bridging Iranian roots and jazz fusion on a global stage.