Maryam's Bio Prior to her 1977 Homeland success in Iran, Maryam Jalali gained vast popularity as artists, musicians, and talent agents witnessed her performance in Kjajah Javanan (Youth Clubs). A host of songwriters compared her to Dariush, one of the most famous Iranian male singers of all time. With the exception of a softer tone of voice, hers was like his, warm and beautiful. As a child, Maryam was fascinated with the sounds of music and she immersed herself in song. She performed in schools and family events at the age of 16, as well as the aforementioned youth clubs during her primer years. As years went by, she started working with local band directed by Majid Khostavan, and they gained popularity and recognition as they performed in several Iranian clubs. With Khostavan's help, Maryam was able to become her own artist, as they co-wrote songs and lyrics together. Amir Reza's Bio Playing piano since the age of two, Amir-Reza has engulfed his entire life and thinking towards music. Originally a pianist, Amir-Reza changes his musical direction at the age of sixteen when he picked up the acoustic guitar. Falling in love with the endless possibilities of this new instrument, Amir-Reza almost abandoned the piano until the summer of 2003. It was then that Maryam's album was planned out and Amir-Reza was named primary arranger and composer. With his new role, Amir-Reza reintroduced himself to the piano that summer and with new inspiration, composed and arranged many hits for Maryam's album 'New Beginning.' Including three of his own instrumental pieces in the album, the album was completed and released to the awaiting public. Amir-Reza is currently planning a tour with Maryam in support of 'New Beginning,' and is also composing songs for Maryam's next album, due in the summer of 2005.