Tanburi Cemil Bey (1873–1916) was a seminal figure in the history of Ottoman classical music, renowned for his virtuosity on the tanbur, a long-necked Turkish lute. Born as Mehmed Cemil Şener in Istanbul, he was not only a master performer but also a prolific composer, responsible for a wide range of instrumental and vocal works that have significantly shaped the modal system (makam) in Turkish classical music. His musical genius was apparent from a young age, and he was already acknowledged as a master by his teens.

Beyond the tanbur, Cemil Bey was accomplished on several other instruments, including the violin, lyre (kemençe), and lavta, demonstrating his dexterity and depth as a musician. His compositions and performances have been influential in the Ottoman court and beyond, earning him a legendary status among musicians and music aficionados alike. Much of what is known about his work today comes from the recordings he made in the early 20th century, a time when the recording industry was in its infancy. Albums like "Tanburi Cemil Bey Külliyatı" and "Tanburi Cemil Bey: Volume IV & V" encapsulate the profound legacy he left behind, featuring many of his classic recordings that are still studied and revered by Turkish music scholars and performers worldwide. Though his life was cut short at the age of 43, Tanburi Cemil Bey’s contributions continue to resonate, ensuring his status as a cornerstone in the edifice of Middle Eastern music.