DILAN TOP & ERKAN TOP

Dîlan Top

Dîlan Top, born in Dêrsim, is a Kurdish musician based in Germany. Through her music, she invites her audience to explore the roots, traditions, and emotional richness of her culture.

She completed her professional musical education at the World Music Academy in Mainz, where she later also worked as an instructor. There, she taught children and young adults the art of the Tenbûr. Alongside her musical pursuits, she earned a master’s degree in Management from Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz.

Dîlan sings in Kurmancî, Zazakî, Turkish, and Armenian, accompanying herself on the Tenbûr, a central element of her music. Her work blends tradition with modernity. In her performances, she is also accompanied by the Bilûr, bass, and percussion, creating a harmonious interplay that highlights the richness of traditional sounds.

In addition to her concert performances, Dîlan has contributed as a musician in theatrical productions, including at the Theaterhaus Hannover and the Kammerspiele Munich. She also participated in the book project “Kurdish Women Musicians” and the accompanying concert organized by the Institute for European Ethnomusicology at the University of Cologne.

Through her music, Dîlan Top connects deeply with her cultural heritage, while also making it accessible to a wider audience by blending traditional elements with modern influences. At the same time, she conveys emotional depth and opens up a space for dialogue about language and culture, making her art both personal and universal.

Erkan Top, born in Dêrsim, is a Kurdish singer. He lived in Dêrsim until the age of fifteen before moving to Germany.

With a powerful voice and a deeply emotive style, he creates interpretations that are both unique and compelling. His singing carries memories in all their shades, weaving them into sound.

Erkan accompanies himself on the Tenbûr, an instrument he studied at the Mainz World Music Academy. He also writes and composes original pieces, which have become an integral part of his musical identity.

He is especially recognized for his heartfelt Dengbêj performances, delivered with great passion and devotion. His free improvisations within this tradition give his music depth and a captivating emotional resonance.

Through his art, Erkan Top tells stories that connect past and present, leaving a lasting impression on his audiences.

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