Date:
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The Center for Middle Eastern Studies is pleased to present a talk and live musical performance by
Arzu Eylül Yalçınkaya, Ph.D.
Visiting Researcher, CMES, Harvard University; Faculty, Institute for Sufi Studies, Üsküdar University
Accompanied by Istanbul Meshk Ensemble:
Tev Stevig, Tanbur, (Multi-instrumentalist, teacher)
Michael K. Harrist, Yaylı Tanbur, Kudüm, Vocal, (Multi-instrumentalist, composer, teacher)
Volkan Efe, Ney, Ud, Kemençe, Vocal, (Multi-instrumentalist, electronic Engineer)
A.Eylül Yalçınkaya, Bendir, Ud, Vocal
This talk illuminates the contributions of Ahmet Avni Konuk (d. 1938) and Kenān Rifāi (d. 1950) Sufi scholars who, amid the Ottoman Empire's twilight, wove tradition and innovation into the fabric of Turkish classical music. Challenging Hammâmizâde Dede Efendi’s (d. 1946) lamentation “the taste of the game has just gone,” their work signifies not a decline but a transformation, where ancient melodies intertwine with new harmonies. We will delve into how these musicians skillfully navigated the evolving landscape of Ottoman music, responding to Western influences and the musical reforms of the 19th century while preserving the integrity of traditional forms and styles.
Live performances of selected pieces from these composers will serve to demonstrate and analyze the continuity and adaptation within Sufi lodge music traditions. The event will examine how Konuk and Rifāi skillfully combined traditional and contemporary elements, shedding light on the cultural and spiritual contexts that influenced their contributions to the ate Ottoman/Turkish music. Aimed at contributing to the ongoing dialogue on cultural identity and heritage preservation, this scholarly presentation, enriched with musical performances, seeks to deepen our understanding of Turkish classical music during this pivotal epoch.
Contact: Liz Flanagan