Taner Akyol

Here's a brief biography for Taner Akyol:

Taner Akyol, born in Bursa, Turkey, in 1977, is a renowned Turkish composer and musician known for his mastery of the bağlama, a traditional Turkish lute. He initially trained as a violinist in his hometown and later moved to Berlin in 1996, where he studied with esteemed musicians like Helmut Zapf and Hanspeter Kyburz. Akyol's compositions often blend traditional Turkish music with advanced Western elements, creating a unique sound that transcends cultural boundaries. He co-founded the intercultural ensemble Cornocopia and directed the Musikatelier in Berlin-Kreuzberg since 2004. Notably, he composed the children's opera "Ali Baba and the 40 Robbers," which premiered at Komische Oper Berlin in 2012.

Akyol is also the founder of the Taner Akyol Trio, which combines the bağlama with piano and percussion, creating a dynamic synergy of improvisational music. His work includes notable albums such as "Traveller" and "Birds of Passage," showcasing his diverse musical talent. Additionally, he has collaborated with Greek singer Maria Farantouri, highlighting his ability to bridge cultural divides through music.