Show of Hands Improvisation Festival's Seventh Edition Begins Tomorrow: 'Living in the Moment...'

Istanbul is once again set to host the vibrant Show of Hands Improvisational Music Festival, marking its seventh edition. This year, the esteemed Arter venue not only opens its doors but also takes on a co-producing role, underscoring a strong partnership built on shared artistic vision. The festival, a brainchild of Ramin Sadighi, has been a beacon for spontaneous musical creation since its inception in 2017, drawing international support and participants.

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Show of Hands is actually based on the idea of being together and a common sense of belonging. This festival, founded in 2017 and now over 10 years old, does not aim to offer just a series of concerts or events; it aims to be a living community that experiences the essence of music through being together.

Show of Hands distinguishes itself by moving beyond the typical concert format, aiming to create a profound 'experience' rooted in the idea of 'being together.' Unlike festivals that feature transient 'parachute artists,' Show of Hands actively cultivates a sense of belonging. Artists are encouraged to immerse themselves in the festival, attending each other's performances, engaging with the audience, and fostering genuine connections. This creates a unique musical 'tribe,' where collaborations spark organically and artists continue to support each other across different geographies long after the festival concludes.

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Unlike many festivals, we don't believe in the 'parachute artist' concept of coming, performing, and leaving immediately. We encourage all participating artists to stay for the entire festival; to watch each other's performances, interact with the audience, socialize, and truly be a part of this community. We often call this a 'tribe.'

At its core, the festival celebrates improvisation, a practice Sadighi likens to the essence of life itself – the ability to live in the moment. This philosophy is particularly relevant in our current 'age of algorithms,' where the spontaneity of human creation offers a vital counterpoint. The upcoming panels and discussions will delve into this theme, exploring how improvisational music provides a space for freedom and authentic expression in an increasingly digitized world. The festival invites audiences to join this celebration of shared creativity and the profound connections forged through music.

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What is remarkable is that once artists and contributors become involved in this environment, they continue to maintain their connections. New musical collaborations emerge spontaneously, and members support each other in different geographies.