Download the concert program here [PDF]

The show opens with Drómeno, a traditional ensemble presenting regional folk music from the Greek mainland and beyond. With roots in the Balkans, the Seattle-based group’s unique, many-layered sound connects the traditions of western Macedonia and Ipiros, through Thessaly, Thrace and Asia minor. Featuring clarinet and voices, Drómeno’s instrumentation includes accordion, saxophone, violin, oud, bouzouki, zourna, guitar, laouto, kanun, and percussion.

Drómeno: (from ancient Greek) An artistic, social, cultural performance-spectacle, (sometimes dramatized). A cultural event and/or ritual.

Headlining the performance is Aynur, one of the most well-known musicians from Turkey and an advocate for Kurdish culture, particularly for Mediterranean female musicians. Raised in Istanbul and surrounded by the myths and poetry of the Alevites, Aynur brings to life music that’s based on traditional folk songs, with many of them being at least 300 years old. Many of her lyrics are about the life of Kurdish people, and in particular, the joy and suffering of Kurdish women. She blends Kurdish with Western music, creating her own unique style that is both freshly modern and deeply rooted in tradition.

Aynur has collaborated with world-renowned musicians like Yo-Yo Ma and Silk Road Ensemble, among many others. She won the Master of Mediterranean Music Award in 2017 through her layered and deeply atmospheric voice. In this rare U.S. live performance, Aynur brings her powerful melodies to Town Hall.

Global Atmosphere

Pre-Show Food and Beverages starting at 6PM
Before the show, Seattle-based pop-up Soozveen joins us with flavorful Mediterranean dishes. Follow the aroma and grab a plate of biryani, dolmas, tabbouleh, delicious desserts, and more.

To celebrate the Kurdish and Greek heritage of both bands, we’ll also have specialty drinks (Both alcoholic and non-alcoholic) available at our cafe!

Come early, get some dinner, and immerse yourself in the flavors of the culture before the show!

Presented by Town Hall Seattle, in association with Seattle Sacred Music & Arts. This event is supported by our media sponsor, KEXP.