SAFA is a trio that explores the many threads and traditions of its members. Incorporating elements of Persian music with Western Classical and improvisation, this virtuosic ensemble has presented concerts at major festivals across North America. Safa‘s 2002 CD, “Alight”, which featured compositions based on Sufi poetic themes, was met with critical success. Based out of Vancouver / Montreal, SAFA was founded by Amir Koushkani (tar), François Houle (clarinet), and Sal Ferreras (percussion), with Hamin Honari taking over the percussion chair after the group’s 10 year hiatus. SAFA was recently featured as part of the Aga Kahn Museum’s pocket performance series, and will present a CD release concert in Vancouver on May 31 at the VSO Annex.