Dear listeners,
This year the Musikfest Berlin invites you to discover new musical realms through its sophisticated and broad-ranging programme. Ensembles from around the world will take you on an auditory journey to regions that lie beyond the familiar musical centres of Europe, yet merit the attention of European audiences. Against the backdrop of the brave uprising of women in Iran, the performance in Berlin this year by the all-women Iranian Māhbānoo Ensemble will surely be a very special experience. Solo singing by women has been banned in Iran since the Islamic Revolution, which has nearly obliterated a centuries-old Persian musical tradition in which women had always participated. With new confidence, female musicians are finding a way to make their voices heard. They especially make use of digital space, although even there they are not safe from harsh penalties and other consequences. Yet despite all of the Iranian regime’s efforts to silence the Māhbānoo Ensemble, the group has achieved an impressive level of fame, and will now be performing in Germany for the first time at the Musikfest Berlin. Their remarkable and encouraging story shows the incredible power of music.
In this spirit, I hope that the Musikfest Berlin will leave you with memorable and inspiring musical experiences.
Claudia Roth
Member of the German Bundestag
Minister of State for Culture and the Media