Sounds of the Cities invites you to discover the musical cultures of migrant communities in Antwerp and Brussels from 2026 to 2028. Across a series of six concerts, you will encounter musical traditions from around the world that have become an integral part of the cultural heartbeat of these cities today,. Traditions that continue to evolve, reinvent themselves and connect people across borders and genres.
For this second edition, Sounds of the Cities turns its focus to the rich musical traditions of Iran with Aram, a brand-new trio bringing together three exceptional musicians from distinct musical traditions.
A shared love of poetry, captivating melodies and subtle percussion lies at the heart of this unique collaboration. Although each musician brings a different musical background, they share an extraordinary sensitivity that makes attentive listening and spontaneous improvisation feel effortless.
Shahab Azinmehr is a master of the Persian long-necked lutes tar and setar. Alongside his virtuosic playing, his warm, velvety voice brings a remarkable emotional depth to the music. Turkish kemençe virtuoso Derya Türkan bridges centuries-old Ottoman traditions and the contemporary global music scene with exceptional artistry and expressive power. Percussionist Robbe Kieckens completes the trio with a refined rhythmic language that draws connections between diverse musical cultures, creating a rich and deeply expressive musical dialogue.
The Persian word Aram means peace, calm, serenity and stillness. Inspired by these ideas, the trio creates an intimate musical world where poetry, improvisation and tradition meet. The concert also marks the release of the trio's debut album.
Musicians:
- Shahab Azinmehr – tar, setar, vocals
- Derya Türkan – kemençe
- Robbe Kieckens – percussion
Prices:
- Presale: €15
- Members Muziekpublique: €10
- At the door: €19
Sounds of the Cities is a collaboration between Muziekpublique, MIM, Muziekmuseum Vleeshuis and vzw Wesp / Merodefestival, with the support of the Flemish Government.
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