Abd-ur-Rahmân Surizehi

Who is Abd-ur-Rahmân Surizehi?

Abdulrahman Surizehi is an ethnic Baloch musician, born in Iranian Balochistan and later living in Oslo, Norway. Surizehi specialises in the benju, a Baluch keyboard zither, and has been referred to as the instrument's greatest performer. Surizehi was influenced by his father Joma Surizehi, who played a prominent role in refining the instrument and securing its place in Baloch culture.

Abdulrahman Surizehi is considered among connoisseurs as the worlds leading performer on the Baluchi instrument Benju. He reveals a vitality, creativity and exhibits extensive knowledge of Baluchi tradition, as well as an outstanding mastering of comprehensive repertoires on the Benju. This he has picked up through innumerable meetings and recordings with several great masters both in Iran and Pakistan. The Benju is a dulcimer like instrument, which appeared in Baluchistan in the first part of last century, presumably by way of Japan. In Baluchistan it was developed and improved; the Baluchi Benju is approximately one metre in length and is about twice the size of its closest relatives. The main string is double with accompanied strings on each side.