Visions of Nar

A vibrant collaboration of Armenian folk, jazz, and contemporary musical storytelling.

Experience an enchanting collaboration of Armenian folk, jazz, and contemporary sounds, as Visions of Nar weaves transcendent beauty, dynamic interplay, and hypnotic rhythms into a spellbinding performance. Expect a journey through fiery passion, profound intimacy, and mystical realms, driven by some of Australia's most exciting jazz voices.

“…demonstrates the illustrious capacity of jazz to provide the freedom necessary for musicians to express themselves in new ways.” ★★★★1/2 The Australian, Eric Myers

“…moment’s of transcendent beauty, showcasing remarkable interplay, shimmering with crystalline prose and profound intimacy.” ★★★★1/2  Fine Music Magazine, Barry O'Sullivan

“...beguiling beauty, its measured cadences spellbinding and hypnotic.” Rhythms Mag, Des Cowley

★★★★ “...an invigorating performance with moments of genius that evoked a tremblingly gorgeous mystical realm...” Limelight Magazine, Jessie Tu

“A space that sonically and stylistically lay entirely outside of idiom.” Sydney Morning Herald, John Shand

Visions of Nar brings together some of the most exciting voices in Australian jazz; pianist Zela Margossian, saxophonist Jeremy Rose. Together they bring in guests guitarist Hilary Geddes, percussionist Adem Yilmaz and tabla player Bobby Singh. A kaleidoscopic ride through Armenian folk, jazz and fresh compositions with a nod to the fiery Armenian goddess of water, sea and rain, Nar. This musical journey sends a message of hope and celebration of new beginnings, perfect as the world awakens after a long period of disruption.

Visions of Nar formed as part of an ABC Fresh Start commission. In 2021 they performed to a sold out crowd at the Sydney Opera House as part of SIMA’s International Women’s Jazz Festival. Their debut album, Daughter of the Seas, was released ABC Jazz/Earshift Music.

Jeremy Rose - soprano & tenor saxophone, bass clarinet

Zela Margossian - piano

Hilary Geddes - guitar

Adem Yilmaz - percussion

Bobby Singh - tabla

Zela Margossian

Zela Margossian is an acclaimed Armenian-Lebanese pianist and composer whose music seamlessly blends her rich cultural heritage with contemporary jazz. Known for her virtuosic playing and emotive compositions, Zela draws inspiration from Armenian folk traditions, classical training, and jazz improvisation. Her ensemble, the Zela Margossian Quintet, has garnered international acclaim, receiving ARIA nominations for their unique fusion of styles. Zela's music is celebrated for its storytelling quality, transporting listeners on an evocative and deeply emotional journey.

Jeremy Rose

Jeremy Rose is a renowned saxophonist, composer, and bandleader at the forefront of the Australian jazz scene. With a career spanning 25 albums from multiple acclaimed projects, including The Vampires, the Earshift Orchestra, Vazesh and Jeremy Rose Quartet, his work is marked by innovation and cross-genre exploration. Jeremy’s compositions incorporate elements of jazz, classical, and world music, earning him numerous awards, including an ARIA Award, APRA Art Music Award and short-listing for the Australian Music Prize. His collaborations with international artists and his fearless approach to pushing musical boundaries make him a leading voice in contemporary jazz.

Bobby Singh

Bobby Singh is one of the world’s most distinguished tabla players, celebrated for his extraordinary skill and versatility. Trained under the legendary guru Pandit Nikhil Ghosh, Bobby has mastered the classical Indian tradition while also exploring contemporary genres, from jazz and flamenco to fusion projects. His collaborations include working with artists like Jeff Lang, Slava Grigoryan, and the band Circle of Rhythm. Known for his mesmerising rhythmic precision and ability to connect across musical traditions, Bobby is a dynamic force in global music.