Aynur visited the Etnosoi! festival for the last time 20 years ago, and at that time the artist, who was still unknown here, conquered the hearts of the Finnish audience in one fell swoop. Her career had gotten off to a strong start and the road to the international market was open, among other things, thanks to the hugely popular song Keçe Kurdan (Kurdish Girl).
A lot has happened since then.
Aynur and her band are arriving in Finland with the final shows of the tour of Aynur’s eighth album ‘
Rabe’, which has climbed to the top of the world music charts. The music and lyrics come from tradition, as well as from Aynur herself and icons of Kurdish, Alevi, and Yazidi culture such as
Şâh Hatâî and
Pir Sultan Abdal. Aynur is one of the most iconic and influential voices of Kurdish music today. Over her 25-
year career, she has reshaped the musical landscape by blending the deep-rooted
traditions of Kurdish folk music with contemporary Western influences, creating a
timeless and globally resonant musical language. Her extraordinary voice and emotive
storytelling represent the rich cultural heritage of her roots, reinterpreted as a universal
genre. With her international band, she also seeks points of contact with Western European styles.
Aynur has collaborated with world-renowned musicians and ensembles, including Yo-Yo
Ma and the Silk Road Ensemble, Maestro Riccardo Muti, Kayhan Kalhor and the Nederland Blazers Ensemble.
Aynur has significantly influenced the development of contemporary Kurdish musical
tradition, effectively bridging historical and modern elements while reaching audiences
worldwide. Her exceptional capacity to connect individuals through music affirms her role
as one of the most impactful and prominent voices in both Kurdish and international
music.
On stage in Helsinki:
Aynur - lead vocal, tembûr lute
James Wylie - clarinet
Mahan Mirarab - guitar
Franz von Chossy - piano
Chris Jennings - bass
Patrick Goraguer – drums
»To hear Aynur’s voice is to hear the transformation of all the layers of human joy and suffering into one sound. It reaches so deep into our soul, tears into our hearts, and then we are for one moment, joined as one. It is unforgettable!« Yo-Yo Ma
Aynur has received worldwide recognition and many awards for her top professionism and her beautiful art – such as the WOMEX 21 Artist Award.
Duration of the concert about 90 minutes, no intermission
Stalls/floor licensed area, age limit 18. The balcony welcomes all ages, not a licensed area.
Production: Maailman musiikin keskus – Global Music Centre
https://www.globalmusic.fi/en/home
Etnosoi! Festival
https://www.etnosoi.fi/en/etnosoi/etnosoi-frontpage
