Turkish composer, oud virtuoso, founding member of Cengiz Onural, and member of Yeni Türkü, joined us for an hour filled with masterful melodies, history, and emotion.
He took us on a journey through the winding streets of Istanbul, spoke about the magic of Makam music, his deep love for Rebetiko, and his efforts to support its recognition by UNESCO. He also discussed his highly anticipated and truly special concert, held the following day in the historic garden of the Centre for Asia Minor Studies in Plaka.
Joining us in the studio was our valued friend and researcher Giorgos Bilalis, who not only provided live interpretation throughout the interview but also enriched the conversation with his knowledge, offering unique historical, scholarly, and artistic perspectives.
The most moving moment of the evening, however, was once again your participation. Messages and personal questions sent to the studio from members of the Greek diaspora in Chicago, Melbourne, London, and Johannesburg demonstrated that the music of the Eastern Mediterranean has no “owners” — it belongs to anyone who feels it deeply, sings it, and is moved by it, no matter how far from home they may be.
A heartfelt thank you to Cengiz Onural for the honor of his presence, to Giorgos Bilalis for his invaluable contribution, and to all of you who became part of this global musical bridge.
Produced and presented by Alexis Kostas