Turkish presidential orchestra opens new concert hall

By Burak Bir

ANKARA (AA) - Turkey’s Presidential Symphony Orchestra on Thursday opened a new concert hall in the capital Ankara.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said that the Presidential Symphony Orchestra building will serve as a symbol of the country's rich culture and art.

"During our term, Turkey broke free not only in politics, economy and defense, but also in culture, art, music, literature," he noted.

He went on to say that the new concert hall will become a landmark of the capital.

The hall is located in the heart of the city with a view of the historical Ankara Castle and Anitkabir Mausoleum.

The project was completed at a cost of 83 million euros ($99 million).

It will host the most respected orchestras and soloists from around the world.

It is set to dazzle art lovers with its concerts on classical music and other genres.

World-famous soprano Angela Gheorghiu and twin sisters and pianists Guher and Suher Pekinel will perform at a concert on Thursday and Friday at the hall. It has been directed by Cemi’i Can Deliorman.

On Saturday, world-famous pianist Idil Biret will meet fans.

Busra Kayikci, one of the young representatives of neoclassical music in Turkey, will also give a recital on Dec. 5.

Ticket prices for the 2020-21 Concert Season have been set and are on sale.

Guests will pay 100 TL ($12.85) for the first category, 70 TL ($8.99) for the second category and 50 TL ($6.42) for the third category.

The third category prices will be discounted by 50% for students and retirees and for disabled, veterans and relatives of martyrs.

The foundation of the hall was laid 23 years ago.

* Merve Berker contributed to this report from Ankara