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Join us for an immersive performance by Mohammad Khodadadi, an acclaimed Persian composer and performer on the ney, an ancient end-blown cane flute that plays a central role in Persian mysticism. The sound of the ney is said to express the human soul’s longing for union with God, drawing listeners into an introspective, contemplative state. Born in Iran, and trained by masters of Persian music, Mohammad weaves the haunting sounds of the ney with the dynamic energy of Iranian bagpipes, blending traditional Persian melodies with his own innovative compositions. Mohammad will invite the audience to experience the expressive range of Persian music, enhanced by his deep knowledge of both Western and Persian classical traditions. This close-up encounter promises an evening of captivating sounds and spontaneous musical exchanges, offering rare insight into Iran’s musical heritage through the artistry of one of its most dedicated performers. In a Q&A after the performance, we’ll have the chance to engage directly with the artist and explore his creative process and inspirations. Expect an evening that draws you closer to the beauty and depth of this captivating musical tradition. About the artist: Mohammad Khodadadi, born in Bushehr, Iran, started his musical journey on the ney at age 15, He trained rigorously under master musicians, later studying the Persian radif (traditional repertoire) and vocal techniques alongside piano and composition in Iran and Austria. He is currently pursuing Western composition studies at the University of Anton Bruckner in Linz, Austria, and has expanded his expertise to include conducting. Mohammad performs as a soloist and composer across Europe and Iran and organizes seminars to promote Persian classical music in the West. He teaches Persian music fundamentals in Austrian institutions, along with individual classes in ney, Persian singing, and music theory. His work bridges cultures, blending the depth of Persian musical heritage with Western classical influences, bringing traditional Persian sounds to global audiences with fresh and innovative expressions. Visit: The Art of the Ney: Contemporary Sounds of Iran with Mohammad Khodadadi Mohammad Khodadadi on Instagram and Facebook

Join us for an evening with Julian Kytasty, whose playing of the bandura, Ukraine’s national instrument, evokes haunting memories of Russian and Soviet suppression of Ukrainian national identity. Julian’s singing of epic songs and his playing of free improvisations and modern world music blend tradition with innovation to reveal the bandura’s expressive depth. Following the performance, we’ll invite you to take part in a Q&A session with Julian to gain insight into his creative process and the remarkable journey that has established him as a leading bandurist. The concert’s intimate setting will allow you to experience his rich, evocative soundscapes up close, creating a deep connection to Ukraine’s musical heritage and Julian’s unique artistry. About the artist: Julian Kytasty is a renowned instrumentalist and composer who has expanded the expressive possibilities of the bandura, a traditional Ukrainian plucked-string lute-zither with 50 or more strings. Born to a family of Ukrainian refugees in Detroit, Julian learned the bandura from his father and grandfather. Later, he moved to New York, where he became the artistic director of the New York School of Bandura. Julian’s work spans diverse genres, from ancient Ukrainian epic songs to electroacoustic projects, world music collaborations, and experimental theater. An active educator, he has led workshops and master classes worldwide, sharing his passion for the bandura with new generations. Visit: Soul of the Bandura: Music and Stories from Ukraine featuring Julian Kytasty Julian Kytasty on Facebook

This year was a roller coaster in real estate and economic news. What will 2025 bring? During this 60 minute presentation Patrick Kappel, recognized by the San Diego Business Journal as one of San Diego's most influential real estate professionals, will provide you with real data and insights into the San Diego real estate market by sharing with you economic information collected from numerous sources to provide you with a clear image of the current real estate market and what you can expect as a buyer or seller in today's real estate market going into 2025. If you are considering buying or selling real estate, or if you would simply like to get a pulse on the status of the San Diego real estate market and the likely direction our market will go, then you won't want to miss this webinar! Join us for an in-depth discussion centered around the economy, real estate, and real data. The Kappel Realty Group is a Diamond Real Estate Team (highest level) in San Diego County, placing it in the top 1% percent of all real estate groups in the County and top 1% of all real estate teams in the United States. This webinar is taught by Patrick Kappel, named by the San Diego Business Journal as one of the 50 most influential residential real estate leaders and 50 Most Influential Military Veteran Leaders in San Diego. Patrick is a top 1% Realtor in San Diego County and the 2020 San Diego Team REALTOR Leader of the Year by the San Diego Association of Realtors. He graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy with a Bachelor's degree and continued his education at UCLA, where he received his MBA with a focus on finance and entrepreneurship. He then earned a Masters Degree in Real Estate from the University of San Diego. His combined years of academic and practical knowledge have given him the necessary skills to become a trusted teacher and advisor to his clients. Visit: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_CCZTqBT0STKmj5bnlJlViw#/registration Kappel Reality Group on Instagram and Facebook

Formula 1 racing has a ban on cursing, with fines starting at about $46,000. NPR's Scott Simon explains why drivers are darn unhappy with that.

As we enter wedding season, culture critic Linda Holmes suggests that we bring back the splashy TV wedding at full power.

Albanese was the first Australian prime minister to clinch a second consecutive term in 21 years. He suggested his government had boosted its majority by not modeling itself on the Trump administration.

The cartoonish-looking salamanders have faced an uncertain future in the wild. But researchers hope that breeding axolotls in captivity and releasing them in the wild can help their numbers.

USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service has opened up 73 jobs to internal candidates. They include roles just vacated by people who are receiving full pay and benefits through September.

Latinos, many from outside the U.S. mainland, have risen in prominence in horseracing, from the grooms to some of the winningest jockeys.

A lot happened this week, and NPR has you covered. Catch up on the big news and culture moments you might have missed.