TEHRAN -- Iranian composer Shahin Farhat laments the fact that the country’s music is not as popular as its cinema, ISNA reported on Friday.

He said that there are no specific programs or goals for art in Iran, especially music.

“I am not unhappy that cinema does well in the country’s marketplace, but what makes me sad is the fact that music is ignored. I am interested in Iranian cinema and like films that are thoughtful and entertaining as well,” he explained.

“I like films by Ms. (Tahmineh) Milani and I am happy to hear that her latest film ‘Cease-Fire’ is a box-office hit and that the film ‘The Rival Wife’ (directed by Alireza Davudnejad) is popular. But why is this not happening for music?

“For example, Mr. (Loris) Tjecknavorian and I had to work hard for months to record a symphony, but there is still no news of when it is to be released.”

Farhat is currently composing the Prophet Mohammad (S) Great Symphony.

He has also composed the Iran Symphony and the Persian Gulf Symphony.