Sepehr Pirasteh is an Iranian-born composer currently based in Philadelphia, where he has completed both a master’s degree and a Ph.D. in composition. His music often blends contemporary Western techniques with influences from Persian musical traditions, resulting in a sound that is both modern and deeply rooted in his cultural heritage.

When They Broke Down the Door! was inspired by a poem by Fatemeh (Shahrzad) Shams, translated by Dick Davis. The work explores complex emotional landscapes within a politically charged context, and for LCSO, Pirasteh has reorchestrated the piece to suit a chamber orchestra setting. This version emphasizes the clarity of individual lines and the interaction of the instruments, bringing the poetry’s intensity to life in a way that is both compelling and intimate for listeners.

Pirasteh’s compositions have been recognized internationally, selected for performance by the Beth Morrison Projects Next Gen series and the Society of Composers Inc.’s Super Regional Summer Mixtape, as well as through a Fromm Foundation Fellowship at Harvard University. His music invites careful listening, rewarding audiences with subtle details, dynamic contrasts, and the melding of diverse musical voices.

For May 8, LCSO audiences will have the opportunity to hear this work for the first time in its new orchestration, experiencing a modern composition in a setting that allows each instrument and motif to emerge distinctly.

Tickets & Info: https://lcso.short.gy/may-lcso-2026