Toronto-based Iranian mezzo-soprano Shaghayegh Bagheri has been celebrated for her “extraordinary vocal range and captivating stage presence,” blending classical technique with innovative and experimental artistry. Known for her unique approach to vocal expression, she seamlessly bridges traditional Persian music, contemporary composition, and electronic soundscapes.

Shaghayegh Bagheri holds over two decades of experience as a performer, poet, and educator and continues establishing herself as a vital force in the international music community. She has performed extensively across Iran, Europe, and North America, presenting a diverse repertoire of classical, contemporary, and experimental works. Shaghayegh has appeared in solo concerts and multidisciplinary performances in Germany, Italy, and Greece and has collaborated with renowned composers and ensembles worldwide. She has four published albums: "Seyr und Silence," "Aphrodite," "Free," and "Of Your Hands," and a Poetry book, "Eighth Secret," published in the Netherlands.

‏In Iran, she founded a successful singing school, "Chant School," and played a vital role in shaping the country’s contemporary music scene.

Homa Samiei is a Toronto-based composer, pianist, and artistic director whose work seamlessly blends Persian musical heritage with Western classical and contemporary music. She is currently a composer for the IFCA Collective Opera, a project funded by MAP Fund and Opera America, where she explores innovative storytelling through opera. Homa co-founded Najva Ensemble, Chaam Project, and Himeh Cultural House, collaborating with musicians worldwide to bring unique cross-cultural performances to life. Her compositions have been featured in prestigious international festivals and performed by renowned ensembles such as the International Contemporary Ensemble, The Thin Edge New Music Collective, and the University of Toronto Wind Symphony.

As a composer-in-residence at the University of Toronto, she premiered critically acclaimed works, including “Mooyeh” and “The Bird Was Just the Bird,” both of which reflect her deep engagement with poetic narratives and innovative soundscapes. Her commitment to artistic curation extends beyond composition—she organizes cultural music events that foster creative dialogue and cross-disciplinary collaboration. Homa's debut album, Raha (Free), showcases her distinctive approach to music-making, combining intricate Persian melodies with modern harmonic structures. Her portfolio also includes commissions from prominent institutions and experimental projects pushing contemporary music's boundaries. Beyond her work as a composer, Homa is an accomplished pianist. With a passion for musical exploration and cultural storytelling, she continues to shape the global contemporary music landscape.