Ali Hagh'shenas
Ali’s passion for the Qarmon deepened daily, despite being self-taught. He trained under Mr. Javad Alvandi and taught youngsters at Farshbaf Music Institute, sharing Azerbaijani music. Beyond teaching, Ali performed at gatherings for free, finding joy in spreading his culture’s music to his community, a reward greater than any payment.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Ali Haghshenas was born on April 30, 1961, in Tabriz, Iran. Ali was captivated by the world of music from a young age, contrary to his father, Ahmad Haghshenas, who was not favorable about his musical aspirations and refused to provide him with the means to learn and progress.
Ali’s determination never wavered. Fortunately, his mother, Fatemeh Hasanadeh, was a consistent source of support and encouragement, despite his father, fostering his dream of becoming a musician.
Ali’s first musical encounter was with a melodica that belonged to his nephew. This humble beginning marked the start of a lifelong passion.
As he grew older, Ali’s curiosity and dedication led him to learn to play the accordion. However, it was the Qarmon, a traditional Azerbaijani instrument, that truly resonated with him and became his passionate instrument.
Musical Journey and Teaching Career
Ali’s Passion for playing the Qarmon grew stronger day by day, though he was primarily a self-taught musician. He eventually sought formal training and studied under his first official music teacher, the skillful Mr. Javad Alvandi. Ali began teaching Qarmon playing to youngsters, sharing his passion for Azerbaijani music with the next generation. He also worked at the Farshbaf Music Institute, where he further contributed to the musical community.
Ali’s dedication to promoting Azerbaijani music extended beyond the classrooms. He frequently performed at family gatherings, weddings, and birthday parties, for free. For him, the joy of introducing Azerbaijani music to his community was the ultimate reward.
Family Life and New Beginnings
On November 11, 1987, Ali married Rubob Haghshenas in Tabriz. They built a loving family, welcoming two wonderful children into the world. Their son, Varan Haghshenas, went to medical school to become a successful orthopedic surgeon in Houston, Texas; while their daughter, Gonash Haghshenas graduated from the University of Texas in Austin, in 2013.
One of his significant musical achievements was performing the “Koroglu Opera with Stas Venglevski, the famous Moldovan virtuoso accordion player, who lives in the United States. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he also established the Gonash Music Ensemble, continuing his dedication to promoting Azerbaijani music even during challenging times. Ali was passionate about practicing music daily. He traveled to Azerbaijan every opportunity he could find, to learn more from renowned qarmon masters and to enrich his musical talent. He also recorded some of his plays in Baku, Azerbaijan.
Ali was the first qarmon player to introduce Azerbaijani music in the United States, a testament to his passion and dedication. Despite this significant accomplishment, he remained extremely humble and down-to-earth, never seeking recognition for his contributions.
His final years and Legacy
Unfortunately, Ali was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2020; despite undergoing extensive medication and chemotherapy, he passed away on February 11, 2024.
Ali’s memory and legacy continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He was deeply loved and respected by countless friends from around the world. Ali’s personality, kindness, and humanity gave him a unique character that left an indelible mark on everyone he encountered.
Continuing Ali's Legacy
In honor of her beloved husband, Rubob Haghshenas was determined to continue Ali’s legacy of promoting music and supporting young musicians. On August 19, 2024, she established
“Ali Haghshenas Educational and Musical Nonprofit Foundation”. This organization aims to help young people worldwide who are passionate about learning music but have financial challenges. Through this foundation Rubob continues Ali’s mission, ensuring that his love for music and his generosity lives on.