Muharrem Aslan - Sounds of Anatolia | The Open Space

Sounds of Anatolia An intimate journey through Anatolian music, contemporary expression and deep listening Join Muharrem Aslan for an intimate solo performance where the rich musical traditions of Anatolia meet contemporary musical expression through voice and bağlama. Moving through traditional melodies, makams, rhythms and improvisation, Sounds of Anatolia invites audiences into a musical space shaped by listening, connection and emotional experience — qualities also informed by Aslan’s work as a music therapist. Full details At the heart of Sounds of Anatolia is the bağlama, an instrument deeply connected to the musical and cultural landscape of Anatolia. Moving between instrumental works and songs, Aslan draws on traditional melodies, makams and rhythmic forms while approaching them through his own contemporary musical language. The performance explores the meeting point between tradition and new musical expression, allowing the distinctive sound of the bağlama and the human voice to move between rhythmic intensity, improvisation and moments of stillness. As both a performing musician and a music therapist, Aslan’s relationship with music extends beyond the stage. His professional practice has deepened his exploration of listening, communication and the ways music can create connection and emotional resonance. This perspective subtly informs the way he approaches performance and his relationship with an audience. Alongside traditional and contemporary approaches to the bağlama, Aslan’s playing also incorporates his distinctive Fourtemolo technique, extending the rhythmic and expressive possibilities of the instrument. Sounds of Anatolia is ultimately a journey through rhythm, tradition and new musical expression — carrying the sounds of Anatolia into a contemporary Australian performance setting while creating space for attentive listening, reflection and connection.