Organized by the Bahçeşehir University Conservatory, “Friends Have Not Forgotten You – A Tribute to Âşık Veysel” was presented to audiences at BAU Pera Stage on the evening of March 25.
Held in remembrance of the great folk poet Âşık Veysel—his works and his philosophical world—the concert offered a deeply moving and artistically rich experience.
The event was realized under the artistic guidance of BAU Conservatory Director Dr. İsmet Aydın, with the participation of guest artist Özlem Taner, one of the leading representatives of the Anatolian female minstrel tradition.
During the concert, students from the Conservatory’s Voice Training and Music Department—Ece Naz Keleş, Yiğit Tosun, and İrem Atabay—performed works by Âşık Veysel. Their interpretations contributed to revitalizing the traditional musical heritage through contemporary perspectives.
Through the works performed throughout the program, Âşık Veysel’s profound expression and his musical language—shaped by a deep love for humanity and nature—were once again brought to the forefront. The audience was invited on a meaningful artistic journey through a repertoire reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Anatolia.
The concert also stood out as a reflection of the Bahçeşehir University Conservatory’s commitment to researching, preserving, and sustaining Anatolian musical culture, while fostering its transmission to future generations.
