At the age of nine, she was discovered for the state radio children’s choir. But her traditionalist father vetoed her decision: a Jewish girl should not sing on Persian radio! Jeanette, a curious, inquisitive and talented girl, knew early on that she did not belong in this Persia… Through a Jewish-Zionist club in northern Tehran, she learned of an organization that could enable her to emigrate to Israel. After an arduous, almost Sisyphean struggle, she managed to “escape” to Israel – on the condition that she would be educated in a religious environment. Jeanette – now 15 years old – arrived at the youth village “Kfar Hasidim”.

In the first thirteen years  after her emigration, Jeanette closed herself off to anything that sounded Persian. It was not until 1985, during a one-year stay in West Africa, where she accompanied her husband, that her memory returned: the music of her childhood began to awaken in her again. This moment marked the beginning of a process of reconciliation and renewal. Since then, she has devoted herself to collecting, classifying, studying, performing and teaching various forms of Persian music.

An outstanding feature of Persian music that Jeanette has mastered is the special trill technique ‘Chah Chah’ (birdsong). This element is highly regarded and demanding, as it requires special talent and the utmost precision.

Accompanied by first-class Persian musicians playing authentic instruments, she beautifully performs the stirring, noble and subtle songs of Persian music. Jeanette also performs with a virtuoso group of Israeli musicians who play classical oriental instruments. Together they interpret original works of the ensemble as well as new songs, texts and improvisations of traditional oriental music. Jeanette has participated in numerous Israeli and international festivals. She has given concerts in Cyprus, Malta, Vienna and Los Angeles.