Royal Philharmonic plays Turkish diva’s songs

ISTANBUL – Doğan News Agency

DHA photo

The world-renowned British Royal Philharmonic Orchestra interpreted the songs of Sezen Aksu, known as the diva of Turkish pop music, for an exclusive concert accompanied by the Istanbul Philharmonic Orchestra on Dec. 10.

The orchestra, directed by famous Italian maestro Marcello Rota, interpreted Aksu’s songs as her journey through the music world marks its 40th anniversary. 

Aksu and her son also attended the dazzling concert, where Aksu’s songs were accompanied by a screening of old pictures marking her journey from her childhood in the Aegean city of İzmir to her years on the stage.

The exclusive concert, where the 69-year-old orchestra of 70 musicians performed songs rearranged by veteran musician, arranger and composer Erdal Kızılçay, also marked the 20th year of Polimeks Holding, the organizer of the event.

Kızılçay, known as one of the best bass guitarists in the world, worked for up to one year to rearrange Aksu’s unforgettable songs.

Rota also surprised the audience and invited Aksu on stage to perform the last song of the concert. Aksu was warmly applauded by around 2,000 music lovers for minutes, while she sang “Hayat Sana Teşekkür ederim” (I thank you, life) and was moved to tears.

The concert’s repertoire included a wide variety of Aksu’s best-known songs. Rota said Aksu made exceptional music which includes the rhythm of life, as well as soul and heart.

The British Royal Philharmonic Orchestra has interpreted pieces of many other veteran musicians and bands such as Pink Floyd, Oasis, Queen, George Michael, Sting and ABBA.

The CD and DVD of the memorable concert will go on sale in January 2016.

The performance is set to be organized once again in 2016 at London’s Royal Albert Hall, Most Production founder Mustafa Oğuz said.