After digesting the events of the last five days and knowing that my journalistic beat is culture not politics, this is what I felt was appropriate to write. Seeing it through the lens of the musical life here may seem only tangential, but it’s symbolizing, in its own unique way, a picture of what’s been happening in Turkey. The title is a quote from Atatürk, the founder of the Turkish Republic.

“A Country Without Art is a Country Torn Apart”

Cole Porter’s music joined that of birthday boys Wagner and Verdi in two cities, via American baritone Thomas Hampson.

Thomas Hampson closes BIFO’s season, opens Samsun’s Festival

Cue up the old tune: “Istanbul (Not Constantinople)…” for your personal soundtrack to a historical guided tour on bicycles.

Monuments by Moonlight: Velonotte (Bicycle Night in Istanbul)

Finally, a week with real substance in the concert hall, Mr. O’Conor notwithstanding.

Shostakovich’s Music Illuminated by Two Orchestras

NY Phil: well, the Fab Phil was frankly, American, meaning “anything goes.” Also mentioned here: the Fab Four from Ankara (cellists from the Presidential Symphony Orchestra) played everything from Beatles to Bach.

New York Philharmonic Triumphs in Istanbul

Don’t miss Collishaw’s brilliant take on the insidious underbelly of human existence.

ARTER’s Duo of Unearthly Delights

April 30 – a full day of music and music ed, capped by an exclusive concert. There’s a reason why I use the word “exclusive” here.

International Jazz Day Shines in Istanbul