Lesson Learned: Just as we see Iran making progress with their music policies, Women are also getting a chance to be in the spotlight. This is something that is rare for Iranian women who are directed to have no say in anything, especially music.
Description:
This article by Rachel May, gives the reader a glimpse inside the life of Sultana Banu, following through when she first began to sing a child, to now as an adult with a live audience at livestock, not in work clothes but in a red tunic and burgundy skirt singing to thousands of Tehrani women at the First Music Festival of Iran’s Regional women. This festival marks the expansion of artistic opportunities in iran, where beforehand, performances were controlled due to controversial issues, along with several genres that are still banned to this day. This folk festival celebrates Women’s day in Iran, demonstrating a concern for women’s full participation in Iranian society. Women in an Iranian society are responsible for a huge share of music-playing, however not receiving much attention. This festival allows to still pay attention to their limits but preserve their culture and customs. The only downside is that these women cannot play in the presence of a man, having all mean leave the area if a women is singing in a solo performance. Many believe that these restrictions on women bring doubt to these festivals and their efforts to celebrate women. Some have different opinions based on the idea that these festivals are only allowed to prove to the rest of the world that Iranian women don’t have any problems, losing sight of what the festival is supposed to stand for. Times are still tough, but women are beginning to make their mark in the Iranian world. Their bootleg CDs are blaring from inside taxis, but that’s not enough for a country always in battle with the government. (May 1)
Evaluation:
I personally enjoyed this article due to the fact that women are finally coming into play in Iran. Yes I still believe that they have a long strenuous road ahead of them before things start to get increasingly better, but it’s a start. I like how the author just focuses on the women, showing their advances and even using real individuals who are struggling with having their voice heard through music. It’s just an amazing thing to see that the women are getting a chance to perform, even though men aren’t allowed to watch. The Iranian Music Festival is the bright light at the end of the dark tunnel for women in Iran. It is easy to see that times are still hard, but women are taking a stand and accepting what they can get for their musical freedom.
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