Erkan Oğur and İsmail Hakkı Demircioğlu: A Soul-Stirring Concert in Toronto

Date: Sunday, June 9, 2024 | 5 pm
Price:
Row A–C: $100 Regular | $90 Friends | $50 Students
Row D+: $80 Regular | $72 Friends | $40 Students
Tickets include same-day Museum admission.

Experience the depth and beauty of Anatolian folk music with two of the region's most revered musicians, Erkan Oğur and Ismail Hakkı Demircioğlu. Presented in partnership with sohoConcept, the live performance will include a blend of ancient and contemporary Anatolian folk songs, described as "a joint attempt in reminiscing." 

For more than two decades, Oğur and Demircioğlu have been breathing new life into the songs of Anatolia, blending traditional instruments like the saz and bağlama lute with the modern sounds of the fretless guitar. Their collaborations have led to several acclaimed albums and concerts worldwide, drawing from musical traditions that date back to the 14th century. 

About Erkan Oğur

Erkan Oğur is a pioneering figure in Turkish music, renowned for inventing the fretless guitar. His musical journey began at four, mastering instruments from the violin to the bağlama. Oğur's unique style merges traditional Turkish melodies with innovative sounds, influencing various genres and inspiring countless musicians. A graduate of the Istanbul State Conservatory, he has been a vital force in music since 1976, featuring in numerous albums and influencing the soundtracks of award-winning Turkish films like Eşkıya and Yazı Tura. His album "Bir Ömürlük Misafir" gained international acclaim, showcasing his profound impact on world music. Oğur's collaborations extend globally, continuously enriching Turkey's musical heritage.

About Ismail Hakkı Demircioğlu

Ismail Hakkı Demircioğlu, a maestro of Turkish folk music, is celebrated for his deep connection to the essence of Anatolia's cultural heritage. From a young age, Demircioğlu was drawn to music, mastering a variety of instruments, from the bağlama to the bass guitar. His academic journey culminated at the ITU – Turkish Music State Conservatory, where he honed his skills and theoretical knowledge. Notably, his tenure with the Ruhi Su Friends Choir underscored his commitment to the socio-political narrative of folk music. Collaborating with Erkan Oğur since 1998, Demircioğlu has co-created albums that resonate with the soul of Anatolia, bringing timeless folk songs to the contemporary stage. His belief in the transformative power of these melodies underscores his performances, making him a pivotal figure in Turkey's musical landscape and beyond.

About sohoConcept

Founded in 2000, sohoConcept stands at the forefront of contemporary furniture design, seamlessly blending sustainability with innovation. With distribution hubs in New York and Toronto, the brand offers a diverse range of furniture that caters to both contract and residential projects, regardless of scale. Designed to adapt to various settings, from public spaces and offices to homes, sohoConcept maintains a competitive edge by offering exceptional value and satisfaction. 

The Museum’s Performing Arts programming is generously supported by the Nanji Family Foundation.