'Homeland History with Songs' concert to mark World Music Day in Istanbul

Istanbul's rich musical heritage will be celebrated with a special concert, 'Şarkılarla Memleket Tarihi' (Homeland History with Songs), on June 21, coinciding with World Music Day. The performance will take place at the Harbiye Cemil Topuzlu Open-Air Theatre, promising an evening that echoes through the city's memory.

The concert is a collaborative effort featuring the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (IBB) City Orchestra, the IBB Turkish Folk Music Ensemble, and the IBB Turkish Classical Music Ensemble. Conducted by Üstüner Büyükgönenç, the event will showcase a repertoire of iconic songs that have defined different periods of Turkish music history.

Audiences can expect to hear beloved pieces such as “Lüküs Hayat,” “Haydar Haydar,” “Mühür Gözlüm,” “Tamirci Çırağı,” “Güneş Topla Benim İçin,” “Ele Güne Karşı,” and “Senden Daha Güzel.” These selections represent a journey through the diverse musical landscape of Turkey.

Adding a layer of historical and cultural context, the concert will be narrated by journalist, writer, and music researcher Murat Meriç. His insights will guide the audience through the stories and significance behind the music, enhancing the overall experience. The event is organized by IBB Orkestra, a division of IBB Kültür.