Istanbul Music Festival kicks off 54th edition
The 54th Istanbul Music Festival, one of Türkiye’s longest-running classical music events, has opened with a ceremony and gala concert at the Atatürk Cultural Center (AKM), bringing together leading international musicians, orchestras and cultural figures.
Organized by the Istanbul Foundation for Culture and Arts (İKSV) with the support of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, this year’s festival will run from June 11 to 25 under the theme “Here & Now,” exploring the fleeting nature of time and music’s ability to create lasting memories.
Speaking ahead of the opening concert, Festival Director Efruz Çakırkaya said the event would host more than 80 artists and ensembles from around the world across 22 concerts at 14 venues throughout Istanbul. She noted that the theme was designed to highlight the transient nature of life and music, describing musical performances as moments that are born, grow and fade, while leaving enduring impressions on audiences.
The program includes two free public concerts, scheduled for June 14 at Yoğurtçu Park in Kadıköy and June 20 at Yıldız Park in Beşiktaş.
