Sound of Istanbul
Presented by the Berlin Konservatorium für Türkische Musik (BTMK)
Founded in 1998 by Nuri and Halime Karademirli, the Berlin Konservatorium für Türkische Musik (BTMK) is the first institution in Europe dedicated solely to the study and performance of Turkish music. For over 25 years, BTMK has served as a cultural bridge, fostering artistic excellence in Turkish classical and folk music while embracing contemporary expression. Through its diverse departments including voice, instruments, dance, theater and composition, BTMK has become a vital part of Berlin’s musical landscape.
Join us for a beautiful summer evening filled with the vibrant, expressive and richly layered sounds of 19th- and 20th-century Istanbul, echoing the spirit of the late Ottoman era and the early days of the Republic of Turkey.
The BTMK Ensemble, led by maestro Fahri Karaduman on violin, will perform a selection of works by some of the most esteemed composers of the time. The program features arrangements that are both playful and emotionally textured, combining polyphonic structure with the deep tradition of Turkish makams. Microtonal instruments will be used to preserve the authenticity and nuance of the original compositions.

Violin: Fahri Karaduman
Bowed Tanbur: Tamer Gözalan
Piano: Bekir Karaoğlan
Lavta: Haydar Kutluer
Oud: Taylan Bülbül