Ignalina District Tourism Information Center

Simin Tander

Concerts

May 22nd. Two exceptional world-famous artists will perform at Paliesius Manor! Vocalist and composer Simin Tander and bassist Björn Meyer will perform.

These two prominent figures on the international jazz and world music scene will create an intimate dialogue between voice and bass guitar. The concert will intertwine tradition, improvisation, and contemporary sound.

The duo will perform an impressive program consisting of works from Simin Tander’s latest, internationally acclaimed album “The Wind” (Jazzland Recordings) – newly interpreted Afghan songs, inspiring original compositions and bold, deeply moving improvisations. The album is described as an intriguing meeting of melodic contemporary jazz, balancing between acoustic and electronic music, ambient folk and the “deep groove” subgenre in the duo’s unique composition. The album’s title “The Wind” (Lithuanian: “Vėjas”), inspired by the folklore and poetry of Afghanistan, Spain, Italy, England and Norway, symbolizes the fusion of contrasts – both gentle breezes and storms – while being associated with transformation, freedom and unity. This music combines various dynamics and moods – from soft, flowing harmonies to energetic, danceable rhythms. However, all the works are united by themes of devotion and longing.

German-Afghan vocalist and composer Simin Tander “captivates, enchants and hypnotizes from the very first note” (“Concerto”). She also sings in Pashto, the language of her late Afghan father, thus building a bridge to her cultural heritage. In addition to four acclaimed solo albums, she has also received the German Record Critics’ Annual Award for her ECM recording with Tord Gustavsen and was nominated for the 2024 German Jazz Award (vocal category). Her delicate and powerful voice, combined with emotional improvisations and highly original music, continues to excite listeners around the world.

Swedish-born, Bern-based bassist Björn Meyer is internationally recognized as a master of the six-string electric bass guitar. He is known for his collaborations with Anouar Brahem and Nik Bärtsch and as an ECM recording artist. The musician creates an extraordinary sound spectrum - lyrical, rhythmic, richly textured. In spring 2026, his second solo album "Convergence" (ECM) was released - the album received enthusiastic reviews.

 

Concert cover photography by Dovile Sermokas, Fredrik Gille.

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