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BODRUM PAYS TRIBUTE TO ZEKI MUREN WITH SPECIAL CONCERT

25.09.2026

Zeki Müren, one of the most celebrated figures of Turkish classical music and widely known as Türkiye’s “Sun of Art”, was commemorated in Bodrum with a memorial concert marking the 30th anniversary of his death.

The concert was held at the North Moat of Bodrum Castle as part of a programme organised by the Turkish Armed Forces Mehmetçik Foundation and the Turkish Education Foundation (TEV), with contributions from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Bodrum District Governor’s Office, Muğla Metropolitan Municipality and Bodrum Municipality.

The day’s commemorations began with a public Mevlid and prayer ceremony at the Zeki Müren Art Museum. In the evening, Bodrum Castle hosted a concert featuring some of the artist’s best-known works. Hosted by actor and presenter Hakan Bilgin, the evening began with opening remarks from representatives of the participating institutions.

Retired Brigadier General İsmail Şanlı, General Manager of the TSK Mehmetçik Foundation, highlighted Zeki Müren’s commitment to education, philanthropy and public service, noting that his donations had created a lasting legacy.

TEV (Turkish Education Foundation) Chair Prof. Dr Mehmet Şükrü Tekbaş said Zeki Müren’s support for education had helped provide opportunities for young people and remained an important example of philanthropy.

Acting Mayor Emel Çakaloğlu described Zeki Müren as not only a major artist, but also an important part of Bodrum’s cultural memory. She said preserving his legacy remained a responsibility for the town and thanked the institutions, artists and audiences who contributed to the commemorative programme.

The concert featured Muğla Metropolitan Municipality City Orchestra, conducted by Murat Tuştaş. Soloist Süleyman Öztaş opened the musical programme, followed by Gökhan Sezen, who performed a selection of Zeki Müren’s most memorable songs. The event was attended by Acting Mayor Emel Çakaloğlu, representatives of Muğla Metropolitan Municipality, the TSK Mehmetçik Foundation and TEV, together with a large audience of music lovers. Audience members joined in with the songs throughout the evening, remembering Zeki Müren with affection, respect and gratitude.