Persian classical music dates back to the fifth century B.C. The Achamanide empire used music in prayer, royal festivities, national ceremonies, and war. The music is rich in structure, comprising melodic tones combined with a bounty of colorful rhythms. At the time of the Sassanid dynasty (100-630 A.D.), the music reaches its culmination with the Royal ensemble performing songs by Barbod and Nakisa (the two renown Iranian musicians) in a 100 piece orchestra.

In the next millennium or so, the music comes under pressure from the fanatics in the religious circles and goes underground. During this long period, the theoretical aspects of the Iranian music continues flourishing while the practical part is virtually nonexistent. It is only in modern era in which the Persian music revives in its full capacity.

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