Aminullah Rashidi’s initial exposure to music came from listening to gramophone records and songs performed by famous singers from the 1320s (1940s). During this time, Radio Iran had begun to play a prominent role in the popularization of Iranian music, broadcasting performances by established and emerging musicians alike.
Upon arriving in Tehran, Rashidi sought formal training in music. He enrolled in evening classes at the Music Academy (now Vahdat Hall) and learned musical notation under the guidance of Musa Marofi, one of Iran’s most prominent musicians and musicologists. Rashidi was one of the first Iranian singers to become familiar with international musical notation, a skill that would prove invaluable throughout his career.
In addition to his formal education in music theory, Rashidi studied singing under Mehdi Forough, who helped him refine his vocal technique. Rashidi’s ability to blend traditional Iranian music with modern techniques allowed him to stand out in a competitive music scene.
Career at Radio Iran (1327–1344)
Rashidi’s career took off in 1327 (1948) when he began working with Radio Iran as both a singer and a composer. One of his early successes was the song “Range of Separation,” composed by Musa Marofi in the Afshari mode, which Rashidi performed with one of Radio Iran’s orchestras. This performance marked the beginning of a prolific career that would span nearly two decades.
Rashidi quickly became a prominent figure on Radio Iran, where he composed and performed over 120 songs. His compositions often featured collaborations with some of the most respected poets and lyricists of the time, including Toraj Gardan, Bijan Targhee, Mehrdad Avesta, Fereydoun Moshiri, and Reza Shabiti. Rashidi’s music was known for its emotional depth, lyrical beauty, and innovative use of traditional melodies.