Reza Vali - Salmak, String Quartet No. 6 (FLUX String Quartet)

Information

Composer: Reza Vali

1. I Salmak 1
2. II Old Salmak 1
3. III Salmak 2
4. IV Old Salmak 2
5. V Salmak 3
6. VI Old Salmak 3

FLUX String Quartet

    Tom Chiu, violin

    Conrad Harris, violin

    Max Mandel, viola

    Felix Fan, cello

Date: 2026

Label: Navona

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Reza Vali’s Salmak, performed by the FLUX Quartet, represents a rich musical dialogue bridging traditional Persian and Western classical structures. Conceived as a tribute to medieval Persian theorist Safi al-Din Ormavi, the six-movement piece masterfully connects historical Maqâm and contemporary Dastgâh systems. To achieve this integration, Vali utilizes a hybrid approach known as the "mixed tuning system." The FLUX Quartet skillfully navigates the composition’s formidable metrical and intonational challenges, evoking the distinct sonorities of traditional Persian instrumentation. Ultimately, the performance stands as a powerful testament to Ormavi's enduring legacy, blending historical reverence with striking modern innovation.

Born in Ghazvin, Iran, in 1952, composer Reza Vali began his musical education at the Tehran Conservatory of Music before moving to Europe and the United States for advanced studies. After earning a degree from the Academy of Music in Vienna and a Ph.D. from the University of Pittsburgh, he joined the faculty at Carnegie Mellon University in 1988. Vali’s extensive catalog of orchestral and chamber music has been performed globally across Europe, Asia, and the Americas by renowned ensembles like the Kronos Quartet and the Pittsburgh Symphony. His critically acclaimed compositions are featured on prominent labels, including Deutsche Grammophon and Naxos.

Founded in the late 1990s by violinist Tom Chiu and inspired by the experimental Fluxus movement, the FLUX Quartet is a globally acclaimed ensemble dedicated to expanding stylistic boundaries. Known for navigating uncompromising repertoire, the group champions late 20th-century avant-garde icons like Morton Feldman—for whom they are the definitive interpreters of his epic String Quartet No. 2—alongside contemporary pioneers. FLUX has performed on four continents at prestigious venues like the Tate Modern and Park Avenue Armory. Frequently backed by major arts grants, the quartet boasts an extensive discography and regularly pursues innovative, interdisciplinary collaborations across dance, video, and visual arts.

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