PRESS PLAY Episode 58: Kteelalookh dibba – “You killed the bear”

March 13, 2024
Kteelalookh dibba – “You killed the bear”* (2024)

Shameran Khamo (CA), composer

HATCH 2024 Ensemble
Jordana Kleiner, flute
Cheng Cheng, clarinet
Joelle Crigger, violin
Samantha Yang, cello
Carina Shum, piano
Britton-René Collins, percussion
Kelly Lin, conductor

* world premiere

Programme Note:

The title of this piece, “Kteelalookh dibba” is an Assyrian expression – for those who do not know, the Assyrians are an indigenous ethnic group native to the modern day middle eastern regions of Iraq, Iran, Kuwait, Turkey, Syria, and Jordan.

“Kteelalookh dibba” translates to “You Killed the Bear,” in english. This idiom is used to sarcastically congratulate someone on a “job well done.”

The catalyst for this piece is the distress and anger that many people have expressed regarding the various political and human rights issues occurring around the world. This sarcastic congratulations is directed towards people in positions of power or influence who participate in performative activism. In the piece, you will hear groups pushing for change, while one remains stagnant in their ways. Melodies and motifs will emerge and collide representing anger, grief, courage, and hope.

This music’s existence is a form of protest, encouraging everyone of the importance to listen, and remember. Together, the people cannot be silenced by those who continue to use their power in negative and oppressive ways – because no person is truly free until freedom is experienced by all. 

Kelly Lin appears courtesy of Tapestry Opera’s Women in Musical Leadership program.