About the National Anthem of a Free Iran During the Transitional Period

Given the current sensitive situation in Iran and the escalation of psychological warfare at the highest level, any hopeful symbol that represents a free and stable future for Iran can play an important role in strengthening the morale of the people and weakening the resolve of the oppressors. In such an atmosphere, the creation and introduction of a national anthem for a free Iran during the transitional period can be seen as a sign of the people’s determination and readiness to move beyond the current situation and toward a new future.

A national anthem, even amid turmoil and political crises, symbolizes order, planning, and a nation’s clear vision for the future. Therefore, introducing a national anthem at this historical moment may convey a clear message of hope, organization, and national determination to transition toward freedom and stability.

In past years, the song “Ey Iran” has held an important place in the collective memory of Iranians as a patriotic and national piece. However, from a structural and technical perspective, this work faces certain limitations in serving as an official national anthem. Its relatively long duration, the difficulty of performing it for non-professional singers, the presence of quarter-tone intervals that make it difficult for many wind orchestras—especially outside Iran—to perform, and its strong nostalgic and historical character, which reminds more of the past than the future, all mean that the piece does not fully align with the common standards of national anthems.

A national anthem is also, in essence, a representation of a nation’s political identity in relation to other nations. Therefore, it should be immediately recognizable and understandable to other cultures. In fact, a successful national anthem is one that, after just a few seconds of being heard, instantly reminds listeners around the world of the country it represents—much like a flag. In other words, a national anthem should be composed with both the domestic audience and the international audience in mind.

A national anthem is not necessarily a dramatic musical composition; rather, it functions more like a national emblem or logo expressed through music. It should convey a positive, clear, and universally understandable message, while being concise and brief.

Based on this perspective, as an Iranian musician living abroad, I have composed, recorded, and produced a piece titled “The National Anthem of a Free Iran” with the intention of presenting it as a proposal for this transitional period.

This work is offered purely as an artistic proposal, to be considered and, if deemed appropriate, reviewed and potentially adopted. In composing this piece, I have attempted to create a balance between a standard national anthem that can resonate with both Iranian and non-Iranian audiences. I have also tried, as much as possible, to remain faithful to Iranian linguistic and musical roots while at the same time presenting a dignified symbol of a modern Iran that can be represented on the international stage.

I sincerely hope that the people of Iran will accept this work. 

Arash Aalaei – Melbourne /March 2026

Features of the Work

Lyrics

• The text of the anthem is composed entirely of Persian rooted words.

• The lyrics do not refer to any specific form of government, allowing the anthem to represent people across different political perspectives.

• The language is simple, clear, and contemporary, and avoids complex classical poetic structures so that today’s generation can easily connect with it.

Music

• The duration of the piece is short (approximately 56 seconds) and designed within the standard framework of national anthems.

• Despite its brevity, the work has an AAB form and  is musically complete and provides a clear sense of closure and satisfaction for the listener.

• The piece begins with two introductory measures from “Ey Iran” as a symbolic reference to Iranian national music, and then—through modern harmonies—moves into the Mahur mode, introducing a new musical path.

• The melody is designed with public performance in mind, making it easy for the general public to sing.

• The melodic structure is memorable and easily retained by listeners, making it simple to learn and repeat.

• Since the musical framework of this anthem is based on major scale triad chords (Mahur), it is easily understandable and relatable even for non-Iranian audience. As a result, people from different nations can recognize it and immediately identify it as the national anthem of Iran. (This is an important point.)

NOTE: This work is on public domain , should you need the orchestral parts for performance, contact me at info@galamianviolinstudio.com.au. Score and music back track are available for download at the footer.