Beste Sevindik is a Turkish/Dutch violinist and researcher based in the Netherlands. She is currently conducting a research project on the Dutch government’s initiatives and backing for diverse interdisciplinary cultural collaboration projects with Japan at the Leiden Asia Center.
Having graduated from Hacettepe University Ankara State Conservatory, Beste earned her Master’s degree at the Prince Claus Conservatoire in Groningen, with generous support from the Prince Bernhard Cultural Fund and the Klaas Dijkstra Fonds.
As a classical violinist, Beste has performed on various stages in Germany, Belgium, France, Norway, Denmark, Iceland, Japan and throughout the Netherlands. Beyond the concert hall, she actively engages in innovative projects such as “Meaningful Music in Healthcare” project. This initiative involves musicians playing repertoire pieces and improvisations to surgical patients and their care staff at the University Medical Center Groningen and HMC Antoniushove in The Hague. Additionally, Beste has taken part in entrepreneurship and innovative music projects across Europe as a trainee through RENEW, a program supported by the European Commission’s Erasmus+ initiative.
Beyond her musical endeavours, Beste is deeply engaged in research projects exploring the societal role of musicians. As a researcher at the Royal Conservatoire and Hanze University, she contributed to the international project ProMiMiC, exploring the impact of music in healthcare, a collaboration with the Royal College London and the University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna.
Beste’s love for Japanese arts and culture led her to pursue Japanese studies at Leiden University. Following her graduation in 2022, Beste undertook a research internship at the Research Institute for Women and Careers of Japan Women’s University, Tokyo. Here, she conducted qualitative research into the socio-economic conditions of women musicians working in Japan.
Residency Plan:
During my residency, my primary objective is to advance my research project investigating interdisciplinary cultural collaboration between Japan and the Netherlands. I aim to explore the lasting implications and legacy of such projects in shaping bilateral relations, with a particular focus on their relevance leading up to World Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan. Throughout my stay, I plan to conduct extensive data collection, including video material and interviews with organizations and individuals involved in these projects.
Another goal of my residency is to expand my professional network in Tokyo and gather ideas for a PhD proposal which centres on the professionalization of women musicians in Japan. I plan to actively participate in cultural events, workshops, and gatherings to connect with professionals and artists, establishing relationships that may contribute to future collaborative projects and research endeavours. Using this immersive experience, I aim to refine the focus of my PhD proposal.
Additionally, as a musician, I am eager to explore diverse forms of artistic collaboration, such as improvisation sessions and workshops and fostering connections with local artists from various disciplines. By engaging in discussion, seeking advice from experts, and drawing inspiration from the vibrant cultural landscape of Tokyo, I anticipate that this residency will not only be a vital experience for my current research project but also a catalyst for the development of my future academic pursuits.
Instagram：@bestesevindik