Niki Yaghmaee

My journey with music began in Iran-Tehran, where I trained classically and performed with some of the country’s leading orchestras. Over the years, my artistic path evolved, moving from orchestral and ensemble performances to creating fusion pieces that blend acoustic string instruments with electronic beats and looping techniques.

In 2012, I released a fusion album with Talangor Band, combining alternative and classical styles. This experience marked a turning point in my career, leading me to explore alternative hip-hop beats and songwriting. I began making beats, writing rap lyrics, and experimenting with ways to merge hip-hop with the natural tones of string instruments and piano.

In 2017, I founded Duos Duet with Golsana Shenasaei (cello), bringing our shared musical vision to life. At the time, we were both actively performing with orchestras and contemporary ensembles, but we felt drawn toward a more personal and experimental form of expression. Starting out busking in the streets of Tehran, we connected directly with the public, exploring the boundaries of our sound. Our journey has since taken us to Tbilisi, Istanbul, Izmir, and Berlin, where we’ve performed for diverse audiences and collaborated with international musicians, dancers, and visual artists.

Our music with Duos Duet blends cinematic, classical-world crossover, and experimental sounds. Rooted in our classical training and infused with the rich essence of our Iranian heritage, we use looping and computer-programmed music to craft immersive, dark, and atmospheric soundscapes. This unique approach gives our music a depth and emotional resonance that stands out in every performance.

Improvisation lies at the heart of my work, allowing me to break free from genre constraints and weave together inspirations from Iranian poetry, natural landscapes, and the challenges of navigating censorship as an artist. Beyond Duos Duet, I’m also involved in Duos Mate, a collaborative project connecting musicians, performers, and visual artists to create multidisciplinary works.

I love making videos and editing my own works. I run a YouTube channel “Gasht Masht” where I share tips and tricks about traveling, immigration, and living abroad in both Farsi and English. I also do drone videography, blending my passion for visual storytelling with my creative projects in music. You can find these videos and my other works in the Works section of this site

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