I have to tell you about those two Turkish woman, who are outstanding in so many ways. Rarely I have seen such a combination of talent, female power, beauty and political awareness. They are twins and an extraordinary example of how modern and openminded the Turkish culture could be.
First of all, Ferhan and Ferzan Önder are one of the most talented young pianists of our times. When they enter the stage – dressed in floor-length gowns of white silk and wavy long hair – you feel reminded of a fashion event and their aura is immense. It is the maximum of modern feminity you can demonstrate. And with all that said, they sit down at their pianos and perform „Gezi Park I“, a piece composed by Fazil Say – the „enfant terrible“, on the occasion of the demonstrations at the same-named park.
Three years after the terribly brutal knock down of peaceful protesters in the middle of Istanbul, discussing the freedom of speech and equality of all citizens of the Turkish society is still a highly topical issue worldwide. Criticizing Erdogan regardless of whether you are an journalist or blogger, an artist or just a usual resident is just not possible any more inside Turkey, and as we experienced with Jan Böhmermann it is also becoming a political touchy topic even in a country like Germany.
Of course, the concert Ferhan and Ferzan played last night at Philharmonie in Berlin can only be presented abroad. It is the sadest thing that can happen to a country.
The more important it is then, that the world supports those artists, with all our possibilities. We have to show our solidarity and offer a stage for them, so that they can be seen and heard. Especially if they are as courageous and out of the ordinary like the young woman Ferhan and Ferzan. It is so good to have them.
You can hear an interview with the twins (sorry, German) and listen to the full concert on Deutschlandfunk.
Or visit a concert – stay updated on their FB Page!
