ZAVIEH MUSIC ACADEMY

Zavieh Music Academy is a prestigious institution dedicated to nurturing musical talent and fostering a deep appreciation for the art of music. With a team of highly qualified instructors and a comprehensive curriculum, Zavieh offers a wide range of programs for students of all ages and skill levels.


Whether you’re a beginner looking to explore your musical interests or an advanced musician aiming to refine your craft, Zavieh provides an inspiring and supportive environment to help you achieve your goals. Our state-of-the-art facilities and personalized teaching approach ensure that each student receives the attention and resources they need to thrive. Join Zavieh Music Academy and embark on a transformative musical journey that will enrich your life and unlock your full potential.

OUR INSTRUCTORS

music are more than just skills—they are lifelong journeys. Our instructors are not only accomplished performers and exhibited artists but also passionate mentors dedicated to nurturing the unique voice of every student. By blending technical mastery with an encouraging atmosphere, they transform the classroom into a space where curiosity thrives and artistic potential becomes reality.

Sarah Zavieh

Sarah Zavieh is a pianist, educator, and researcher with over two decades of international experience across Iran, Russia, Denmark, and Canada. Her background combines formal academic training in piano performance and composition with long-term practical experience in teaching, performance, and educational program development.

She holds a Master’s degree in Composition and Piano Performance from the University of Art, Tehran, and a Bachelor’s degree in Piano from Moscow State Pedagogical University. Over the years, she has taught piano, music theory, and music history in a range of settings, from private institutes to university-level education, while also maintaining an active role in organizing concerts and artistic programs.

As the founder of Zavieh Music Academy in Tehran (2016) and North Vancouver (2024), she has developed structured music programs with a focus on piano education, children’s music, and accessible learning environments. Alongside her teaching work, she has been involved in research and publications in ethnomusicology and cross-cultural music studies, including conference presentations, ISI-indexed papers, and translation of music literature into Persian.
Learn More about Sarah Zavieh Get the Resume of Sarah Zavieh

Ehab Alsliman

Ehab Guitarrista is a highly accomplished guitarist with a rich background in music. Ehab continued to study music harmony and composition at the Faculty of Music in Syria to get his bachelor's degree in classical Guitar. And worked with the University of Alberta in Edmonton as part of the World Music Program “ Mename “ and performed several shows with them. 

Ehab had the honour of studying flamenco with the renowned Grammy-winning maestro Antonio Rey as well as maestro Victor Marquez from Spain, and continued to study jazz and the history of blues and jazz with maestros Lache Cercel and Don Ogilvie in Vancouver, British Columbia. As well as performing on various stages and venues as a member of the Roma jazz ensemble. 

Ehab's musical prowess extends beyond performance, as he is also an experienced studio musician and composer. His collaborations with acclaimed composers and musicians like Antonio Rey, Lache Cercel, Bill Bourne, Itamar Erez, Curtis Andrews, Kasandra la China, Cam Nufield, Lisi Sommer and many more have enriched his musical journey and contributed to his growth as an artist.

Amir Eslami

Amir Eslami is a composer, Ney performer, educator, and researcher with over twenty years of professional experience in music education, composition, and performance. He holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in music composition and has taught composition at both the University of Art in Tehran and Capilano University in Canada.
Throughout his career, he has founded and directed several musical organizations and initiatives, including Rumi Publishing, the Multicultural Wind Ensemble, the Hezar Avaz Group, and the Iranian Music Society of British Columbia.
He has served and continues to serve as a juror for music competitions in Iran and Canada.
His artistic output includes the production and release of more than 20 music albums spanning orchestral, choral, chamber, and Persian traditional music.
His teaching expertise includes Ney performance, composition, music theory, ear training, musicianship, and preparation for Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) examinations.

Sina Nazari

Music educator with over 25 years of professional teaching experience, instructing adolescents and adults in both formal and independent educational settings. Highly skilled in designing and implementing instructional programs tailored to students’ levels, abilities, and educational goals. Experienced in teaching aural skills, theoretical foundations, and practical musicianship, with a strong record of collaboration with reputable music institutions.

Conducting specialized courses in:  Ear Training - How to Listen to Music - Solfège - Music Theory

Teaching Specializations: Solfège - Harmony - Music Theory (Elementary & Advanced) - Music History - Piano (Bastien Method, RCM – Royal Conservatory of Music)

  • Graduate of the Faculty of Art and Architecture, University of Tehran

Elaheh Naghavi

A skilled pianist and dedicated piano instructor, she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Musical Arts from Komitas Conservatory of Music in 2016, followed by her Master’s in Piano Performance in 2018. Her career as a piano instructor began in Tehran, where she distinguished herself by passing the rigorous examination at the prestigious Pournazery Music Academy, becoming the sole piano instructor at the institution.
Elaheh also collaborated as a pianist with renowned musicians from Tehran’s symphonic orchestra in the Scheherazade quartet. Since moving to Canada in 2023, she has been working in various music schools and using the RCM Method with students of all ages. Beyond her musical talents, she possesses a deep passion for art and literature, having earned a Bachelor’s degree in French literature.

Aysan Khalili

Enthusiastic and dedicated Piano and Orff teacher with over 10 years of teaching experience. Experienced in working with neurotypical and autistic children, creating inclusive, supportive, and engaging learning environments. Passionate about nurturing musical confidence, creativity, and emotional expression. Skilled in curriculum development, RCM exam preparation, and performance coaching. Pianist since age 6 with strong background in piano pedagogy.

  • Piano Teacher – MusicWorks Canada, North Vancouver, BC
  • Piano & Orff Teacher – Zavieh Music Academy, North Vancouver, BC
  • Piano Teacher – Zameen Art House, Granville Island, BC
  • Private Piano Instructor – Rumi Music Studio, Burnaby, BC
  • Piano & Orff Teacher – Hamahang Music Academy, Tehran, Iran
  • Piano & Orff Teacher – Pars Music Institute, Tehran, Iran
  • Piano Teacher – Bagh Nava Sorna, Tehran, Iran
  • Dorsa Gallery – Tehran, Iran

  • Bachelor of Arts in Music – Conservatory of Tehran, Iran
  • Master of Environmental Design – Azad University, Tehran
  • Bachelor of Architecture Design – Azad University, Tehran
  • Music History - Piano Pedagogy Course (Gerogy Sarajyan) - Piano Pedagogy Course (Aghdas Pourtorab) - Orff Schulwerk Teaching Course - RCM Teaching Course

Pegah Taslimi

Passionate and experienced Flute Teacher with over 12 years of teaching children, teenagers, and adults at beginner and intermediate levels. Skilled in both private and group instruction, with a strong background in lesson planning tailored to students’ ages and goals. Experienced in teaching through private studio sessions as well as in music academies. In addition to teaching, I have performance and recording experience with the Tehran Flute Choir, Yarava Music Group, and Mo f Ensemble, performing both solo and collaborative flute repertoire.

Musical Skills
• Chamber and orchestral ensemble playing
• Classical and contemporary repertoire
• Score reading and ensemble coordination
• Stage and recording experience

Lou Latil

Born and raised in Marseille, France, Lou Latil began studying percussion and piano at the age of 5 and completed her music studies at the Conservatory of Music of Marseille, where she graduated in 2010. Lou moved to Paris, France, where she received a Master’s degree in Music Therapy from Paris-Descartes University, a Master’s degree in Teaching and Education from ESPE Paris, and a Bachelor of Philosophy degree from the Sorbonne University.

Following an opportunity to move in Canada, she obtained her MT-BC and MTA status, moved to Vancouver and joined ET Music Therapy after having taught Music at the Calgary French International School.

Trained percussionist, pianist and singer, Lou has been a member of various orchestras, bands and choirs and performed in France and Canada. She recently joined Laudate Singers as a professional alto. She is thrilled to be part of the VSO School of Music faculty, to be able to share her passion, and teach little learners the pleasure of music. She is convinced that music is a wonderful and accessible medium to learn and develop skills in an enjoyable experience.

When not playing music, Lou enjoys being outside, exploring and discovering the beautiful nature of British Columbia. Lou is excited to be bringing VSOSoM Mini Music Makers classes to Zavieh

Fariba Moazzami

Experienced and retired educator with over 30 years of service in primary and secondary education,  including roles as teacher, educational supervisor, and vice principal. Recognized multiple times as  an exemplary teacher. Currently an active vocalist and vocal coach with public performances in  prestigious venues in Tehran and three published music albums. 

Studied voice and music with renowned vocal coaches. Performed concerts in venues such as Vahdat Hall and other major stages in Tehran and Released three professional music albums as a solo artist. Currently active as a professional singer and vocal coach 

  • Bachelor's Degree in Social Sciences - Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran 
  • Primary School Teacher - Ministry of Education, Tehran (17 years) 
  • High School Teacher & Educational Vice Principal - Ministry of Education, Tehran (13 years) 

Arash Moradifard

Born on July 21, 1992, began his musical journey at the age of 9 by playing a Persian instrument called the santoor. At 12, he started playing the piano and keyboard. Since 2009, he has been producing music in the pop, hip-hop, and R&B genres, driven by his passion for composing and arranging. 

His artistic career includes playing instruments for artists such as Ali Yasini, Reza Sadeghi, Hamed Homayoun, and more. Additionally, he has worked as a music producer for Mehdi Yaghmaei, Eljaan, Fedi, Amiaa, and others. 

Additionally, he has been the founder of the website VSTBaz.com since 2012, which is the first Persian website that specializes in producing sample packs and educational content in Persian for Iranian music producers.

Sahand Sarbishei

Sahand is a musician and teacher, playing Tar, Setar, Tanbour, and Oud. He began his musical journey at the age of ten, studying Setar under the guidance of Mr. Foad Tohidi. He later received the Best Setar Player award twice at the Iranian Provincial Music Festival. A formative milestone in his artistic development was the opportunity to study the repertoire of Persian Classical Music (Radif) with the renowned maestro Mohammadreza Lotfi.

After moving to Canada to pursue a Ph.D. in Materials Engineering at the University of British Columbia, the sense of duty to introduce Persian Music led him to hold workshops and music classes, followed by playing with other musicians in Vancouver. He has performed in more than 60 concerts, festivals, and fundraising events, and was selected as Best Musician at the UBC Music Talent Night in 2019.

Amirhossein Mokhtari

Studied Qanun under Ms. Parichehr Khajeh. Advanced training with Aytac Dogan, Ates Karaduman, Kutsal Sutoglu, Goksel Baktagir. Participated in Qanun workshops in Turkey and received certificates from Goksel Baktagir and Tahir Aydogdu. 

Performed in concerts with various ensembles. Qanun performer with the Isfahan National Orchestra featuring Alireza Ghorbani. Performed in concerts inside and outside Iran with Mohammad Motamedi.

Second Prize – Isfahan Music Competition (2005, 2006). Selected Artist – National Conservatory Students Festival (2007). Second Prize – 8th National Youth Music Festival of Iran.

  • Teaching Experience: Qanun Instructor at University of Music. - Isfahan, Iran
  • Haft Khan I and II (Composer: Zabihollah Vahid). 
  • Raz o Niyaz (Vocals: Salar Aghili). 
  • Az Kuch Ta Rahayi (Vocals: Vahid Taj). 
  • Gramophone (Vocals: Alireza Pourostad). 
  • Goriz (Composer: Hossein Mehrani). 
  • Bang-e Sorkh (Composer: Sina Farzadipour).
  • Naneh Delavar [Theatre Music] (Director: Amir Dezhakam, Composer: Miramir Miri). 
  • Rah-e Mehr Raz-e Sepehr [Theatre Music] (Director: Shokrkhoda Goodarzi, Composer: Behzad Abdi).
  • Performed with Iraj and Golpa. Album: Yadegaraan (Qanun and Percussion). Instrumental album with Istanbul Strings, Turkey (forthcoming). Released more than 20 music videos including collaborations with Ali Emre and Aytac Dogan.

Hannaneh Saeidi

She graduated from the Conservatory in 2001. Throughout her academic years, she trained under esteemed masters, including Hossein Dehlavi, Mehrbanoo Tofigh, Taghi Zorrabi, Mehr-Azin Karandish, Shahab Fayyaz, Masoud Ebrahimi, Masoomeh Mehrali, Mina Oftadeh, and Mohammad Esmaeili. She has been recognized as a top performer, receiving first-place awards at the Fajr Music Festival, the Youth Music Festival, and the Yas Festival.

Notable collaborations include her work with the Mah-Banoo and Mah ensembles, led by Master Majid Derakhshani. She is featured as a musician on several prominent albums, including: Labriz and Aftab (Majid Derakhshani), Hezar Gisoo (Maliheh Saeidi), Sal-haye Rangi (Hamid Reza Afarideh), Reyhan (Maryam Soroush Nasab), Az Barg-ha (Hamed Hafezi), Namak 2 (Local folk melodies for children, produced by the Adamak group), and Bar Madar-e Yekdam (Saeb Kakavand).

Hannaneh is the author of "Man-Ghāri va Sāz-e Qānun," a method book for teaching the Qanun to children. Additionally, she has performed the recorded demonstrations for volumes 1 through 4 of Master Maliheh Saeidi's Qanun instructional series.

Regarding Qanun mastery, she completed workshops and masterclasses with Göksel Baktagir (in Iran and Istanbul) and Omar Ziad. For Orff-Schulwerk pedagogy, she completed intensive instructor training under Master Nasser Nazar and participated in masterclasses with Werner Beidinger, Andrea Ostertag, and Andrea Sangiorgio. Furthermore, she attended summer courses at the Orff Institute, Universität Mozarteum Salzburg (2009 & 2011), and regularly participated in summer and winter training workshops for child music educators with the Adamak group.
Teaching Experience
Hannaneh has served as a dedicated instructor of Qanun and early childhood music at the Pars Music Academy for over two decades (2004–2025).

Soheil Salehi

Soheil Salehi began learning the santur at the age of 12 under Armin Shahbazifard. He later continued his studies with Ali Dolatyani and Dr. Saeed Niakosari, where he completed intermediate and advanced training in santur performance, music education, and teaching methodology. During this time, he served as principal santur player of the Saba Cultural and Artistic Center Ensemble and as a teaching assistant to Dr. Niakosari.

From 2013 to 2021, alongside his teaching career, he worked as Executive Director of the Saba Cultural and Artistic Center. He also completed advanced studies in the Iranian musical repertoire (Radif) and modern santur performance under renowned santur virtuoso Ali Bahramifard, later joining the Raahe Santur School as an instructor.

While studying at the University of Shiraz, Soheil held several leadership roles, including director of the university’s traditional music ensemble, secretary and vice secretary of the Music Association, and editor-in-chief of the music journal Avaye Sokoot.

His professional experience includes teaching at more than ten music schools, organizing concerts and educational events, leading Iranian and world music ensembles, and serving as an inspector and representative of the Fars Province Music Association. Since moving to Canada in 2021, he has continued teaching santur, sharing the rich tradition of Persian music with students of all ages and levels.

Aref Zargari

Music has been a lifelong part of my life, beginning at a young age and evolving through years of performance, self-study, and hands-on experience across multiple styles and traditions. While I deeply value technical ability, theory, and formal musical training, my greatest passion lies in developing the musical ear, helping students move beyond simply reproducing notes and toward genuinely hearing, understanding, and feeling music. I believe music is both a craft and a language, built from patterns, emotion, tension, release, and instinctive recognition.

My teaching approach places a strong emphasis on ear training, musical intuition, and emotional connection to sound alongside technical development. I help students identify recurring musical “shapes,” harmonic movement, phrasing, and emotional cues in real music so they can build a more natural and confident relationship with what they play. The goal is to strengthen listening skills, deepen musical understanding, encourage creativity, and help students internalize music rather than relying on mechanics alone. Whether working with beginners or experienced musicians, I aim to make music feel alive, expressive, and personally meaningful.

I strive to create an encouraging but thoughtful learning environment where students are challenged to think musically, trust their ears, and develop their own artistic voice. Technical skill and discipline remain essential foundations, but true musicianship grows when a student can hear meaning, structure, and emotion inside the music itself.

Atin Cheraghchi

Dynamic and internationally trained percussionist specializing in Middle Eastern frame drums and contemporary drum set performance. Recognized for high-energy stage presence, rhythmic precision, and cross-genre versatility spanning traditional Iranian music, jazz fusion, pop, and rock.
Versatile and performance-driven percussionist with formal training from master musicians and extensive experience in international festivals, ensemble performances, recording sessions, and music education. Seyed Atin Cheraghchi blends traditional rhythmic mastery with modern musical fluency, delivering powerful live performances that captivate audiences and elevate ensembles. Known for speed, precision, and infectious rhythmic energy that inspires audience participation.

PERFORMANCE EXPERIENCE

Featured percussionist in the jazz fusion project Maktoub
Performed with Tanboor Navazan
Performed with Neynava Ensemble - Two major performances, Vancouver❘
Featured performer at Rumi Festival (Bali)
Performer at the Divan cultural and music event

Noushin Hedayati

I’m Noushin Hedayati, and I’m a percussionist from Iran. I play the Tombak, Daf (Persian drum) and I’ve been performing and teaching for more than twenty years. I started learning music at the age of seven with my father and continued my studies with respected masters such as Farbod Yadollahi, Ahmad Mostanbat, and Dariush Eshaghi. Over the years, I’ve taught students of all ages and led workshops focused on rhythm and meter.

I’ve had the honor of performing in various national and international music festivals, including those in Iran, Turkey, and Armenia.I’ve shared the stage with great Iranian musicians like the late Master Jalal Zolfonun and Master Mohammad Yeganeh and other well known masters.For me, music is a universal language a space where we can turn beautiful sounds into timeless melodies that bring people together in peace and harmony.

Narin Naghdi

I have been playing Handpan and composing music with it, using it as a way to express myself, be creative, and connect emotionally with others. I have created my own patterns and pieces that show what the Handpan can do, blending tradition and innovation to evoke deep emotions.

Saba Taghiakbari

Saba Taghiakbari is a soprano. Her work as both a performer and teacher is rooted in a belief that music is a space for freedom, expression, and growth. Through her studio, she shares her love for music and art, guiding students to discover their own voice. Music has been a transformative force in her life, helping her grow in confidence and authenticity, and she is passionate about creating that same experience for others.

Performance Experience

  • China Tour - Thunderstorm by Emily Pan (International Tour of 11 performances in 9 cities, China - UBC Opera)
  • Candide - Leonard Bernstein (Chorus Ensemble - UBC Opera)
  • The Sound of Music (Farsi) - Richard Rogers (Role of Sister Margaretta and Chorus - Khial Art Foundation)

Education

  • Bachelor of Music - Opera Performance
  • University of British Columbia 2022-2026
  • Music Diploma - Piano 2021-2022 - Capilano University

Awards

  • Judge's Choice Award Deeba Talent show - 2024
  • Canadian Iranian Foundation Scholarship Award - 2024
  • Canadian Iranian Foundation Acts of Service for Music Award - 2023

Asal Ahadi

Dynamic Dance Instructor at The Dance Centre with over 27 years of experience in Azerbaijani Folk Dance and music. My artistic journey began at age 8 with the Garmon, performing at multiple national music festivals in Iran, and evolved into dance at 13. I specialize in blending traditional techniques with innovative teaching methods to enhance student performance while emphasizing injury prevention and creating a supportive learning environment. With a deep understanding of cultural expression and movement, I am dedicated to inspiring dancers of all levels to reach their full potential.

PERFORMING EXPERIENCE:

  • STAND FESTIVAL | 2025
  • SJ DANCE PRODUCTION | June & December 2025
  • 12Minutes MAX Studio Showing | 2025
  • San Francisco Silk Road Festival and Azerbaijani Cultural Center Event |2015, 2016
  • Iranian AND AZERBAIJANI NoROUZ EVENTS and galas |2010-2020

Negar Abrishami

Passionate and versatile dancer with over 20 years of dance experience, including professional ballet training, stage performance, choreography, and dance instruction. Skilled in a variety of dance styles, including Ballet, Contemporary, Persian Dance, Folk and cultural Dance, and Spanish Dance. Experienced in performing in professional theatre productions and cultural festivals in both Iran and Canada.

• Performed at major venues in Tehran, including Vahdat Hall and Niavaran Cultural Center.
• Member of the Shiftegane Del dance group, performing in several dance and musical theatre productions. Including (Bayan-e Irani, Haft Sin Musical Theatre, My Land, Iran, The Story of Shahrzad, Arshin Mal Alan (Operetta), Carmen (Operetta))
• Performer with Cisad (GAAT) (Vancouver, 2025).
• Dancer and actor in Metamorphosis at the Vancouver Fringe Festival (2025).
• Performer with the Chichaklar dance group in Vancouver.

• Persian Dance Instructor at the YMCA in Vancouver (2023–Present

Reha Sakar

Reha Sakar’s artistic journey began in childhood and has evolved over 23 years in the movie and gaming industry, where he currently works as a Digital Matte Painter on Disney’s Spidey and His Amazing Friends. However, Reha’s true passion lies in watercolour painting.
A senior member of the Federation of Canadian Artists, Reha’s watercolour work is known for its dramatic, loose style, capturing light, mood, and emotion. Watercolour has shaped his understanding of composition and planning a painting, and he enjoys sharing his insights through teaching and workshops.

Nima Adham

Enthusiastic and skilled arts instructor passionate about inspiring learners of all ages through hands-on visual art experiences. Brings over 5 years of experience teaching children and teens in private studios, along with more than 10 years of experience teaching adults in art academies and university settings. Specializes in designing and leading engaging classes in sketching, painting, and crafting. Known for fostering positive, engaging environments where students excel. A committed team player with a strong community focus, adept at developing and delivering lesson plans tailored to different age groups and learning styles. Proficient in blending traditional and modern techniques for a comprehensive art education.

Work Experience:

  • Therapeutic Artist - Creekstone Care Centre, Vancouver, Canada (May 2025 – present)
  • Art Instructor - Zavieh Art Academy, Vancouver, Canada (Nov 2025 - present)
  • Faculty Member – Painting & Drawing - University of Art, Shiraz, Iran (Sep 2020–Dec 2024) and Azad University of Shiraz, Iran (Sep 2011 –Sep 2020).

Asal Mousavizadeh

Enthusiastic and dedicated tutor with a strong academic background in science, currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Physiology at Simon Fraser University. Experienced in teaching Mathematics, Science, and English through both private tutoring and institutional instruction.

Known for a patient, engaging, and creative teaching style that simplifies complex concepts and builds student confidence. Passionate about combining academic learning with creativity, including arts and music, to create an effective and enjoyable learning environment.