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For something completely different, Monika Jalili and her trio will present an evening of Persian pop songs from the 1940s through 1970s as well as traditional love songs from Persia, now Iran.

Jalili, whose husband was born in Iran, was born and raised in New York City and has lived in Sandy for four years.

A classically trained singer, she learned the songs from friends and her in-laws and is proud to be able to deliver songs unheard in Iran since 1979. "Once that [Iranian] Revolution hit, those songs were banned, even though many Iranians love them," said Jalili. The songs were forbidden to be performed or enjoyed because "pop" songs are influenced by the Western tradition of popular music, she said.

Jalili hopes to be able to perform the songs in a free Iran someday, but in the meantime, she enjoys performing the songs to Iranian immigrants who remember them fondly, as well as introducing them to new audiences who appreciate the poetry and sounds of Persia.

"I fell in love with Iranian culture," she said. "I wanted to get these songs out there."

The concert is sponsored by the Excellence in the Community Foundation.

When • Thursday, 7:30 p.m.Where • Gallivan Center, 239 S. Main St., Salt Lake CityTickets • Free admission