Born in Iran in 1989, Payam Ghasemi began his musical journey at the age of 13 with the bass guitar. His passion and dedication to the instrument have shaped a diverse and dynamic career.

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In 2011, he relocated to Istanbul, where he immersed himself in various musical genres.

He pursued Jazz studies at Bahçeşehir University (BAU) and trained in double bass under Kagan Yildiz. Over the next 10 years, he collaborated with numerous bands and artists at major festivals across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Mexico, in addition to performing on TV shows and theater productions. During this period, he also organized weekly jam sessions that became a staple of Istanbul’s music scene.

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He has performed alongside notable artists such as Siyasiyabend, Luxus, Kand Project, Sattar, Aref, Kam, Daem, and Dodan Ozer. This vibrant environment inspired him to develop his own creative projects, featuring groove-driven improvisation infused with subtle Middle Eastern influences.

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In 2021, Payam moved to France, where he expanded his collaborations in both France and Germany. As a sideman, he continues to perform and make music with international artists and bands, including Light in Babylon, Petra Nachtmanova, Shahram Shabpareh, Ya Mame, and Collectif Kay.

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Beyond performing, Payam has been a dedicated educator, offering private instruction to aspiring musicians throughout his career.

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In addition to his collaborative work, he leads two distinct musical projects:

• The Payam Ghasemi Quintet – Based in France, this ensemble features original compositions that blend jazz, groove, and fusion with Middle Eastern music for a transcendent musical experience.

• Solo Project – This experimental endeavor combines the nostalgic sounds of his Middle Eastern heritage with the dynamic energy of modern life, creating a unique and expressive artistic vision.

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Currently, Payam tours extensively across Europe and the Middle East as a session musician while continuing to develop his personal music projects. His passion for music remains as strong as ever, driving his creativity and fueling his ongoing artistic exploration.