"Shabata Kurdistan" Performs the Memory of Kurdish Heritage on the Sulaymaniyah Stage

“Shabata Kurdistan” ensemble performed in Sulaymaniyah,uniting artists from four parts of Kurdistan on one stage to present Kurdish heritage in a new style.

Sulaymaniyah — In an artistic scene blending heritage and renewal, the "Shabata Kurdistan" ensemble held a musical concert, performing works of authentic and folkloric Kurdish song with the participation of dozens of female instrumentalists and singers.

The "Shabata Kurdistan" ensemble, composed of a group of young women, organized a musical concert yesterday evening, Wednesday, August 5, at the Art Hall in Sulaymaniyah, performing a number of authentic and folkloric Kurdish songs, as well as musical pieces and traditional Kurdish songs before the audience.

The concert featured 30 female instrumentalists, along with 32 singers as part of a women's choral group, presenting an artistic performance that adorned the stage with works from Kurdish heritage and art.

In this context, Nujin Burhan, a member of the "Shabata Kurdistan" ensemble, explained that the group began its rehearsals only a week ago, yet within a short period managed to establish its presence among the audience. She noted that she "participated in the concert by playing the sulam instrument, alongside participating in performing all the songs," affirming that preserving authentic Kurdish art and musical heritage holds great importance for them.

Burhan indicated that those interested in art should follow the example of the experiences of senior Kurdish artists, noting that their works still enjoy wide interest from listeners. She called for preserving the identity of Kurdish song and not altering its features under the name of modern art, emphasizing the importance of young people's connection to their culture and heritage. She affirmed that music represents a common language that helps in learning about the cultures of different peoples, explaining that the ensemble seeks to preserve Kurdish culture and authenticity and transmit them between generations.

She added that the use of the def, which carries a distinctly Kurdish character, is not limited to the musical aspect but also serves as a means of conveying religious, humanitarian, and peace messages, aiming to give listeners moments of tranquility and peace.

For her part, singer Zinawi Rawy said she is a member of the "Shabata Kurdistan" ensemble and traveled from the city of Khanaqin to participate in the concert as a singer, performing songs in the Lori and Kalhori dialects. She explained that the significance of the concert lies in it being the first time that artists from the four parts of Kurdistan have gathered on a single stage to present Kurdish song.