Fazıl Say Embarks on Jazz Tour Across Turkey

Turkish virtuoso pianist and composer Fazıl Say is set to captivate audiences this summer with his ambitious new project, 'Say Plays Jazz on Tour with Škoda.' This tour represents a significant milestone in Say's illustrious career, showcasing his innovative approach to music by merging the intricate structures of classical composition with the spontaneous spirit of jazz. The project, brought to life by the Fazıl Say Jazz Quintet, promises a unique concert experience that transcends traditional formats, offering a continuous musical narrative across 7 cities and 10 performances.

What makes this tour particularly compelling from a Turkish perspective is Say's deliberate engagement with pressing contemporary issues. Beyond the musical artistry, the repertoire delves into themes of cultural dialogue between East and West, the complexities of global crises, and specific societal challenges within Turkey, including environmental degradation and the plight of street animals. This reflects a deeply rooted commitment by Say, a celebrated figure in Turkey, to use his platform for social commentary and reflection, resonating with a local audience that values art deeply intertwined with national and global concerns.

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Say Plays Jazz, Say’s relationship with jazz is revealed in its most comprehensive form to date, presenting an original production model where the artist stands out not only as an interpreter but also as a composer and project founder.

This venture is not merely a series of concerts; it is envisioned as a comprehensive artistic statement, with plans for an album recording and international staging. The ensemble itself is a testament to Turkey's rich musical talent, featuring accomplished musicians like vocalist Ezgi Alaş, flutist Aslıhan And Say, saxophonist Serdar Barçın, and drummer Ferit Odman. The tour's itinerary, spanning iconic open-air venues and ancient theaters across Turkey, further emphasizes the fusion of art, history, and culture that defines the project and resonates deeply with the national identity.

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The project has a strong social sensitivity at the core of its repertoire, and the artist stated that alongside the cultural bridge between East and West, it also addresses themes such as global crises, Turkey's social issues, environmental destruction, and the condition of stray animals.