The Album: The album ‘Rumi Remembered - Inspiration’ has it’s roots in the poetry and the teachings of Mawlana Jalal’uddin Rumi, the 12th century mystic, poet, scholar and spiritual teacher of the ‘Mevlevi Order of Sufis’ (whirling dervishes) of Turkey. That inspiration has been a source of immense wisdom, a guide on the journey of self discovery and lessons in humility. Nine of the ten songs on the CD are in English and one in Turkish. The English songs are based on translated versions by Coleman Barks of Rumi’s quatrains and poems. All songs are composed by Garo Altinian and arranged by Amir Rahbar. Using mostly Western instruments and adding a few Eastern instruments, the music aims to produce unique, meditative and contemplative melodies. The Cd has been launched at a concert in Toronto with the participation of Coleman Barks in November, 2012. The Musicians: Garo Altinian - Vocal, Guitar Amir Rahbar – Keyboards Agah Ecevit – Ney (Turkish Reed Flute) Reza Mokhaddas – Bass Guitar Mahsa Ghasami – Cello Siamak Valaei – Guitar Amir Samimi – Percussion Amir Pasandideh – Percussion Lisbeth Helgesen – Backup Vocal Golrokh Aminian – Backup Vocal What people are saying: "Please accept our most heartfelt and genuine congratulations for the tremendous music you've created (with your friends) and intertwined it with one of the most humanist philosophies known to mankind. Looking forward to more of the 'same' and wishing to hear about you and your music in 'mainstream media.' Three Cheers; Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! Wishing you continued success." B.A. Toronto "Thank you for making that album. I have been playing it since the performance. Sometimes 5 times in a day and some songs, 5 or six times in a row. This is one of the best albums I have ever heard. Much Love to You" V.D. Toronto "I want to say that I thoroughly enjoyed the November concert and have been playing the CD daily...sometimes over and over until I feel destressed. I am certainly looking forward to the next one. " C.M. Toronto