Atsind

“Atsind”—the Yiddish word for “now”—is the guiding principle behind this duo, featuring violinist Nicolaas Cottenie and accordionist Ira Shiran.

Together, they interpret traditional music from Eastern Europe, exploring the musical and cultural interconnections between Jewish music, Romania, Bulgaria, Ukraine, Greece, and Turkey. With a keen historical awareness and a contemporary sensibility, Atsind invites reflection on the shared stories woven through diverse musical traditions, and on the power of sound to connect past and present, people and place.

Atsind is about the dialogue between violin and accordion. This instrumentation allows the duo to delve into the textures, modes, and narratives of traditional music, offering programs suited for concert halls, school performances, and private events alike.

With Atsind, Nicolaas Cottenie and Ira Shiran invite listeners on a journey through time and culture—rooted in history, played in the moment.