Join us at North Valley Music School in August for a free music appreciation event!
Turkish Music Workshop
Monday, August 22
Doors 630
Show 7-8
Free!
In an attempt to combat rising xenophobia, Americana duo Mare Wakefield & Nomad have begun offering workshops introducing audiences to Turkish music. It is their belief that fear begins with unfamiliarity. As hosts, they hope that as we get to know one another, we can honor what makes us distinct as individuals, while also understanding that ultimately we are all one and connect through music.
Pianist and percussionist Nomad Ovunc leads a workshop introducing the basic elements of Turkish music. Born in Central Turkey, Nomad’s first musical experiences were steeped in the complex melodies and odd rhythms of Turkish music. His subsequent training in Classical music (Istanbul State Conservatory) and jazz (Berklee College of Music, Boston) gives him the unique ability to illustrate the many ways in which Turkish music differs from Western styles, and what makes Turkish music sound “different” or “exotic” to Western ears. During the workshop, Nomad will introduce students to Turkish melodies, scales, rhythms and time signatures. Mare and Nomad together will perform a variety of Turkish and Turkish-influenced songs throughout the workshop to illustrate the musical styles that are being discussed.
Nomad Ovunc started his music education in Istanbul Turkey, with eight years at the Istanbul State Conservatory. He received a scholarship to Boston’s prestigious Berklee College of Music where he majored in Contemporary Writing and Production. Subsequently, Ovunc has collaborated with folk and pop artists, designed sound for video, and composed symphonic pieces that have been performed by the Lancaster Symphony Orchestra (under the direction of Stephen Gunzenhauser) and in Boston’s legendary Fenway Park.
Both Nomad and Mare are internationally touring, professional musicians and hold degrees from Berklee College of Music.
No RSVP necessary. Learn more about a previous year’s event here.
Join us for a wonderful evening of music!