Twin sisters in Qamishlo aim to preserve Kurdish culture through art
We aim to preserve Kurdish culture through art, said Jîn and Zîn Mitêwit, twin sisters in Qamishlo.
ZEYNEB ÎSA
Qamishlo- Women played a leading role in the revolution that started in North and East Syra, also known as Rojava, on July 19, 2012. Since the revolution, women have been playing a leading role in all facets of life, including in art and culture.
Zîn and Jin Mitêwit are twin sisters aged 16 in the city of Qamishlo. They play musical instruments and sing songs to contribute to the richness of Kurdish culture.
‘I want to be a famous Kurdish violinist’
Jîn Mitêwit decided to play the violin after watching a concert on TV. “I watched a concert on TV when I was 12. Many musicians were playing many musical instruments at that concert. There was an Armenian musician named Samvel at that concert. He played the violin very well. That time I decided to play the violin to be a famous Kurdish violinist. Several years later, my uncle bought me a violin. I took several violin courses and now I play the violin very well.”
‘I want to preserve Kurdish culture through art’
Speaking about the challenges faced by her while learning how to play the violin, Jîn Mitêwit said, “I faced some challenges in the beginning because the violin is a delicate musical instrument. I overcame all the challenges with the support of my family and friends. I want to preserve Kurdish culture through art. The Rojava Revolution has created important opportunities for us, women, to realize our dreams, and I hope all women will realize their dreams. Do not be afraid of what your society says; just take a step to realize your dreams.”
‘We have given many concerts’
Zîn Mitêwit began to play the violin when she was 15. “I realized that playing the violin was very difficult after trying to learn how to play it for eight months. Then, I decided to play a guitar. I took many guitar lessons. We have given many concerts so far. We have formed a musical group called ‘Koma Sakine’. We will perform at a festival for the first time as Koma Sakine and it is an important success for us. We have become stronger thanks to the support of our family. Music gives me peace.”