News

UNITED BY SONGS FOR A GREATER CAUSE, FOR EDUCATION

25.11.2024

On November 24, 2024, Bodrum Municipality, the Turkish Education Foundation (TEV), and the C-Major Turkey Choir came together for a special concert titled “Songs Loved by Atatürk, the Great Teacher,” held at the Azka Hotel. Led by C-Major Choir Conductor Pınar Barut, the concert aimed to raise awareness and support for education.

The theme of the night, “So the Youth Can Learn”, attracted a distinguished audience, including Bodrum District Governor Mustafa Çit, Mayor Tamer Mandalinci, local officials, educators, and media representatives. The evening opened with video presentations by TEV and the C-Major Choir, highlighting the shared commitment to education. Opening remarks set the stage for a night dedicated to supporting young students in their pursuit of higher education.

Concert attendees, including business leaders and artists, contributed to university scholarships by purchasing tickets. The night featured standout performances from celebrated Turkish musicians like Müşerref Akay, Onur Akın, Ege, Sinan Erkoç, and soprano Burcu Hancı. They captivated the audience with a mix of traditional favorites such as “Selanik Türküsü” and “Bülbülüm Altın Kafeste” as well as emotional ballads like “Yiğidim Aslanım” and “Yanık Ömer.”

Bodrum District Governor Mustafa Çit honored educators during his speech, underscoring the importance of education: “Countries with a strong focus on education become leading nations. If we want to lead, we must prioritize quality education.” Çit expressed his gratitude to all who supported the cause.

In his address, Mayor Tamer Mandalinci emphasized the lasting importance of education, saying:

“When Mustafa Kemal Atatürk founded this country, he never allowed his military achievements to overshadow his role as an educator. He constantly thought, ‘How can I contribute to the education of the youth?’ We are deeply grateful to all our teachers who, under Atatürk’s guidance, work for a future where science and art shine together. Our society shall always cherish art, culture, music, and literature. I extend my sincere thanks to the Turkish Education Foundation, the C-Major Choir, and everyone who made this hopeful evening possible.”

The concert concluded with an uplifting finale as performers and guests joined together to sing the “İzmir March” and “Parla”, filling the venue with a sense of unity and joy.