Cigdem and the ensemble will perform songs reflecting the diversity of early 20th century Istanbul.
Musicians:
Cidgem Aslan, vocals
Çiğdem Aslan is an Istanbul-born singer who sings in many languages and regional styles, including Turkish, Kurdish, Greek, Bosnian, Bulgarian, Roma, and Ladino. Her musical journey started within the family. Coming from Kurdish Alevi background, in which music is one of the pivotal elements of the culture, she grew up with the rich sounds of her culture and then gradually met with the other sounds of Istanbul and beyond.
In 2003 she moved to London and joined Dunav Balkan Group, which alongside various workshops broadened her repertoire and skills.
Further Information:
www.cigdemaslan.com
info@cigdemaslan.com
Rebetiko Music
Rebetiko is the music of an urban sub culture of musicians called “rebetes”. Although they openly emerged in Greece in the 1920’s, Rebetiko music is a rich synthesis of music from all over Greece that expresses the pain and suffering of the people at the time. In a heartfelt way of reflecting life, these songs can be full of humour and profound beauty.
Rebetiko Carnival 2016
The Rebetiko Carnival will be taking place throughout the month of June to celebrate the music of Rebetiko. It will bring together people from different backgrounds and nationalities through their common love for this music, performing concerts and providing workshops.
Outreach work for people with special needs, the elderly, and participants in hospitals is a huge part of the festival. Providing access to the music for those who are not able to attend. We will also be working closely with schools to promote awareness of the music and its culture to children, in turn helping them to create their own bands whilst also giving them the opportunity to perform in the festival.
