Azadoota + Band in Sydney, NSW

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Azadoota's founder Robin Zirwanda comes from Iraq, where the Assyrians trace their ancestors back 7000 years. Recognised throughout the diaspora as a goodwill ambassador for his little-known nation, Robin sings catchy originals in his native Assyrian Aramaic language.

In 2019, the International Year of Indigenous Languages, Azadoota is still the only band worldwide who perform for mainstream audiences in the Assyrian language, the native tongue of Iraq's indigenous people, classified by UNESCO as "Definitely Endangered".

Wearing costumes inspired by their royal ancestors, Azadoota's powerful horn section heralds a renaissance of their ancient culture, while the driving rhythm section gives new life to traditional dance beats.

Over their 20-year history, the band has performed at a diverse range of venues, from the tiniest bush halls to the most well-known festivals. Azadoota's albums Planetarian and Beyond Bridges have garnered rave reviews at home and overseas, and their song Lishana has become an anthem for Assyrians living in the diaspora.

In 2018 Azadoota toured North America for the first time, and were granted visas to perform as a Culturally Unique act, in recognition of their work representing the Assyrian people in the global arena.

Hailed as "the act that sums up the WOMAD spirit", Azadoota delivers an Assyrian extravaganza of percussive dance-rock Worldbeat.

Screen name:

ElleZ

Member since:

May 25 2013

Active within 1 week

Level of commitment:

Very Committed

Years together:

20

Gigs played:

Over 100

Tend to practice:

1 time per week

Age:

53 years

MUSIC