Vardan and Emre performed at Globaltica in 2012 as members of the international group Blindnote, famous for their concerts performed in complete darkness – the idea was to intensify sensory experiences and draw attention to the problems of the blind. This time they will present a more personal project directly referring to Armenian and Turkish traditions – their music crosses geographical, cultural and historical boundaries.
The meeting of Vardan Hovanissian and Emre Gültekin is one of the most moving examples of artistic dialogue between Armenia and Turkey – two countries with very difficult relations. The artists – friends in life and partners on stage – found a common language in traditional music, giving it a new form, depth and relevance. There is no room here for accusations or political manifestos – instead, there is a deep need for understanding, respect and healing through art.
Vardan Hovanissian is a master of the duduk – an Armenian woodwind instrument with a double reed, whose warm, sensual sound carries the melancholy and spirituality of the Caucasus. Vardan is considered one of the best instrumentalists in Armenia – he studied with the legendary Djivan Gasparyan. His playing is not only technical virtuosity, but above all deep, moving emotionality. Emre Gültekin is a Turkish vocalist, composer and multi-instrumentalist, specializing in playing the saz and tanbur. He grew up in an environment of musicians, poets and singers involved in preserving the traditions of Anatolia. He is inspired not only by folk music, but also by poetry, the modality of Middle Eastern music and the practice of improvisation. His work is a conscious search for understanding between cultures – without simplification, but with deep respect for the sources.
At Globaltica, the musicians will be accompanied by Marat Jeremian – an outstanding Armenian percussionist specializing in the rhythms of the Transcaucasus, the Middle East and Central Asia. Jeremian gives their music a dynamic breath and space – his rhythmic proficiency and subtlety in building tension perfectly complement the sound of the duo. The trio’s concert is a unique experience – a meeting of voices of the past with the narrative of the present, full of emotional depth and reflection. Music that not only delights, but also moves and provokes reflection.
Musicians:
Antonis Antoniou – electric tzouras / vocals / electronics
Manos Stratis – bass synth / organ
Will Scott – bass clarinet
Ulaş Öğüç – drums / triggers
