At the 6th meeting of the International Advisory Board (IAB), co-hosted by Culture Masters (CM) and the Alliance for the Advocacy of Culture Masters (AACM), Mr. Ali Karimi Tarki, a prominent practitioner of Iranian classical vocal music, was officially appointed Ariran Master number 25001101 for the second half of 2025.
This title honors his more than 35 years of dedication to preserving and transmitting Iran’s authentic vocal tradition through education, performance, and innovation.
Arirang Master Program: Global Recognition of Living Heritage
The Arirang Masters Certification Program, launched in 2023 by Culture Masters, celebrates outstanding practitioners of intangible cultural heritage from around the world.
The program is designed in line with the 1980 UNESCO Recommendation on the Status of Artists and the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, and provides official recognition and a global platform for artists who embody cultural continuity and innovation.
To date, 38 Masters from more than 21 countries have been appointed, creating a sustainable global network through education, digital transmission and international performance.
Karimi Tarki’s appointment highlights the international value of Iranian classical music as a living legacy of peace and dialogue.
Early life and musical journey
Born in Miane in 1956 with a degree in music, Ali Karimi Tarki trained under renowned masters Shapoor Rahimi, Hamidreza Noorbakhsh and the legendary Mohammad Reza Shajarian.
He is a leading exponent of the Radif repertoire and represents Iranian music on national and international stages as principal vocalist of the Moravian Music Group.
innovation and education
Through the Samt-e-Gandine-e-Gonous Institute of Culture and Arts (in partnership with ICCN), Karimi Tarki fuses traditional Persian vocal training with modern pedagogy to attract young audiences and ensure the continuation of Iran’s intangible musical heritage.
As the founder of a dedicated music school, he has mentored many students who inherit Iran’s spiritual and musical heritage.
reputation and legacy
Mr. Karimi Tarki is widely known for his educational and artistic contributions, including his role as the main vocalist on the acclaimed album Yaran-e Movafiq.
Through his work, he bridged tradition and modernity, demonstrating that music is a universal language of tradition and human connection.
MNA/IRN85991910