Born in Iran and now living in the San Francisco Bay area, Mahsa and Marjan Vahdat are internationally acclaimed singers, musicians, composers, and teachers. Whether performing together or separately, the sisters take Persian poetry—particularly that of Rumi and Hafez—to new heights and spaces. For their Getty appearance the Vahdats present a new project, “Woven Verses,” accompanied by Ara Dinkjian (oud), Greg Ellison (percussion), Naseem Latrash (cello), Emma Powell (violin), and Tamer Pinabasi (qanoon).

Getty’s Sounds of LA returns in February to explore the musical geography of Los Angeles and celebrate the work of masters and up-and-coming musicians. Performances will take place during three weekends on February 7 and 8, March 7 and 8, and April 25 and 26 at the Getty Center.

Presentations include Inuit soul music by Pamyua from the Indigenous cultures of Alaska, gospel choir with jazz and soul by local band Jimetta Rose & the Voices of Creation, and Persian music and poetry by Iranian sisters Mahsa and Marjan Vahdat. 

“After a challenging year, we are delighted to return with a full program celebrating musical excellence, grounded in artistry and tradition,” says Daniela Alvarez, public programs coordinator at the Getty.

Part of Getty’s performance offerings for over 25 years, Sounds of LA features musicians that reflect the diverse international cultures of Los Angeles. Visitors are encouraged to enjoy the museum and art exhibitions before the show. The March concerts also complement the exhibition Photography and the Black Arts Movement, 1955–1985. 

Performances are free to attend with a reservation and will take place indoors in the Harold M. Williams Auditorium at the Getty Center. No outside food or alcohol is allowed inside the auditorium. Parking at the Getty Center is $25, $15 after 3pm, and $10 after 6pm. Saturdays after 6pm, parking is free. Visit Getty’s public programs calendar for more upcoming events.