© 1999 D D'sign
A C H A
Worldmusic Ensemble
| It is 6 years ago now that Anadolou-Andalucia first performed at the Evenaar theatre in Rotterdam. The aim was to explore the similarities and the differences existing in Turkish bozlak and in Spanish flamenco music. This first performance, followed by an equally succesful performance at the RASA in Utrecht, established the foundation for a unique fusion of styles which gave rise to a new and fresh sound. Three of the musicians (of a group of four) - Tanar Catalpinar, Nahim Avci (both Turkish) and Benito Ouwendijk, flamenco guitarist- pursued the initiative, together with the Indian sitar/tabla player Ashok Pathak. A whole new panorama arose: Northern India at one end, Andalucia at the other end, and Turkey at the centre. The new ensemble that originated from this was given the name ACHA. Two musicians have joined the ensemblesince then: Alice van den Boogaard - bass guitar - and the Iranian percussionist Siavach Yazdanifar. The ACHA musicians skillfully combine the instruments and styles of these three musical traditions in a very natural manner. The lyrics, usually sung in Turkish, are based on ancient poems by troubadours as well as on modern poetry. Although they are not yet known by a wide audience, ACHA has had many successful performances. Their music could be enjoyed several times on Dutch national radio (NOS, as well as NCRV). Stage-performances include the 'Gentse Feesten', the Ha-Schi-Ba Festival and 'Bevrijdingspop Haarlem', 'RASA' and the Spectrum Festival. |