The all-female Ayal ensemble brings to life folk songs from a wide range of traditions and regions. They perform songs written by and for women in a variety of languages, including Arabic, Persian, Turkish, Kurdish, Greek, Macedonian, and Albanian. Ayal aims to amplify the unheard voices of women who were not given the platform they deserved due to social limitations.
Emine Tokail founded Ayal out of a desire to give forgotten women’s voices a platform. Born in central Turkey, Emine Tokail studied music at Codarts in Rotterdam. Her personal quest for artistic freedom led her to create a unique collective: an ensemble of women from different corners of the world, united by a shared mission.
Each ensemble member brings her own cultural background and musicality to the group, creating a rich and diverse sound palette. Traditional instruments and melodies merge with new interpretations and personal stories.
Ayal’s music weaves together centuries-old heritage and contemporary influences. Together, they build bridges between cultures, generations, and forgotten histories through music that touches, connects, and moves.
Line up:
Emine Tokail – Lead Singer / Founder
Lucie Lelauren – Flute,Duduk
Khorshid Dadbeh – Tar, Tambour
Flavia Escartin – Cello
Zilan Hasret Yıldız – Percussion
Borbala Malyi- Saz, lavta