Ali Akbar Shahnazi was a prominent Iranian musician and composer, known for his mastery of the santur, a traditional Persian string instrument. Born in 1920, he played a significant role in popularizing Persian classical music and contributed to its preservation through his performances and teachings. Shahnazi's musical career spanned several decades, during which he collaborated with various artists and participated in numerous concerts. His unique style and innovative techniques helped to elevate the santur in the realm of classical music, making him a respected figure in the Iranian cultural landscape until his passing in 2015.