Perspectives: Aynur

Aynur is one of the most prominent Kurdish singers of our times. Her impressive voice and extraordinary musical narration represent the Kurdish music heritage of her cultural roots as a global genre. Her unique voice infuses traditional Kurdish folk music with the contemporary sensibility of Western music. She has created a timeless musical language, combining the treasures of Kurdish traditions with modern arrangements that connect generations and cultures.

Since her last performance at the London Jazz Festival in 2023, Aynur released her acclaimed album Rabe (meaning ‘stand-up’ or ‘rise-up’ in Kurdish), which secured the number one position on the Transglobal World Music Chart last year.

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 NDR Big Band. These partnerships have expanded her artistic spectrum and elevated Kurdish music to a global platform.

“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

Presented by NCH