Women of Rebetiko
Created by artist and independent researcher Lidya Durmazgüler, Women of Rebetiko is a memory project that gives renewed space to the often-overlooked female voices within the historical layers of rebetiko music.
About the Project
This multilayered musical journey, beginning with the collapse of the Ottoman Empire in the 1920s and continuing into the 1960s, is shaped by themes of migration, exile, resistance, and solidarity. Spanning from Anatolia to the port cities of Greece, and eventually to record productions in the United States, it is in this trajectory that the women of rebetiko emerge as key carriers of cultural memory.
While the project aims to offer a strong counter-voice to the male-dominated narratives of rebetiko, it also reminds us that music is not only a performative act but a space of memory that connects the past to the present. Enriched with traditional musical forms and brought to life through the vocal interpretations of Lidya Durmazgüler, the repertoire follows the traces of female rebetiko artists shaped by transcontinental migration, and listens closely to the collective memory marked by the 1922 population exchange.
Accompanied by Ali Baran Özcan on bouzouki and Kerim Arafa on guitar, this concert series revives the musical heritage of the Eastern Mediterranean and invites the audience into an intercultural sonic journey.
Research & Documentation
We collect and preserve historical recordings, photographs, and personal stories of female rembetiko artists.
Live Performances
Our ensemble brings these songs back to life through authentic performances in venues across Turkey and diaspora.
Educational Outreach
We offer collage workshops, presentations, and artist talks to share the history and importance of these female artists.
Upcoming Events
Join us for performances, workshops, and cultural events celebrating the ‘Women Of Rebetiko’
August 6, 2025 | 8:30 PM
Voices of the Past: Concert
Minoa Sahne I Beyoğlu – Istanbul
An immersive presentation night and concert, featuring the songs and stories of legendary female rebetiko singers — brought to life with narration, vocals, and live percussion.
August 28, 2025 | 9:00 PM
Voices of the Past: Concert
Delice I Selimiye – Marmaris
An intimate boat concert in the heart of Selimiye Bay.
Songs of exile, love, and longing meet the Aegean breeze.
Join the Women of Rebetiko for a night of music, waves, and wild beauty.
September 7, 2025 | 7:30 PM
A Night with Women of Rebetiko – Music, Memory, and Meze
Defne I Kadıköy – Istanbul
A lively rakı night with the Women of Rebetiko — live music, meze, and songs that carry memory and joy. Join us for an evening of Eastern Mediterranean spirit and sound.
Meet the Musicians
The dedicated musicians bringing the ‘Women Of Rebetiko’ Memory Project to life
Ali Baran Özcan
Bouzouki & Backing Vocals
A master bouzouki player who has studied the authentic playing styles of rebetiko’s golden age. He brings historical accuracy to our arrangements.
Lidya Durmazgüler
Lead Vocalist & Project Director
Lidya is a classically trained vocalist with over 20 years of experience. She founded the ‘ Women of Rebetiko’ Memory Project in October 2024.
Kerim Arafa
Guitar
Kerim is a multi-instrumentalist who has specialized in jazz music forms and now working the historical context of rebetiko music.
Our Musical Approach
We perform using traditional instruments and authentic arrangements, staying true to the original spirit of rebetiko while bringing fresh energy to these timeless songs. Our ensemble includes bouzouki, guitar and in some concerts percussion.
Each performance is carefully researched and contextualised, offering audiences not just entertainment but education about the rich history of these remarkable female artists.
Performance Videos
Watch our performances and documentary excerpts celebrating the women of rebetiko