Turkish flutist tours Japan in honor of centenary of diplomatic relations

By Yasemin Kalyoncuoglu

ISTANBUL (AA) - A renowned Turkish flutist Bulent Evcil gave concerts in Japan in honor of the centenary of diplomatic relations.

Evcil, a flute group conductor in the Istanbul State Symphony Orchestra, told Anadolu that he performed in Tokyo, Akashi, and Kyoto cities.

The 56-year-old musician said his concert tour started at Seimei Gakuen School in Tokyo. He also took the stage at the narrative theater event about the Ertugrul Frigate disaster in 1890 in Akashi.

He said the musical theater play “Kizuna Monogatari”, which means a story of friendship, is dedicated to the 100th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

“I played with Japanese flutist Yukari Yamamura and pianist Maya Asano at the Endo GohkiMuseum in Kyoto,” he said, adding that they performed Turkish and Japanese melodies.

Evcil added that they also performed the world premiere of Japanese composer Kohei Kondo's composition dedicated to him, namely “Yukari Yamamura and Maya Asano.”

“It was a great pleasure to give a concert as a Turkish flutist in honor of the deep Turkish-Japanese friendship,” he said, adding that he gave a flute masterclass during the tour.

The awarded flutist said he gave seven concerts upon the invitation of Japan.

“As an artist, I have seen the Japanese love for Turks and their musical knowledge closely. I wish for the artistic unity of the two countries to continue for many years,” he added.

Evcil, who has many prizes and awards in various competitions, is also the winner of the Royal Belgium Encouragement Medal of Art.

*Writing by Efe Ozkan