A Day Of Concerts And Musical Performances At The Unesco Cities Of Music Annual Meeting In Şanliurfa
A DAY OF CONCERTS AND MUSICAL PERFORMANCES AT THE UNESCO CITIES OF MUSIC ANNUAL MEETING IN ŞANLIURFA
“The UNESCO Cities of Music Annual Meeting continued with a vibrant program of concerts, workshops, and cultural performances in Şanlıurfa. Bringing together representatives from nearly 30 countries across four continents, the event featured a memorable performance by the Vox Humanis Choir, a synesthetic concert, and musical activities celebrating the city's rich cultural heritage.”
The UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) Cities of Music Annual Meeting, hosted by Şanlıurfa Metropolitan Municipality, continued with a diverse program of cultural activities, musical performances, and concerts, highlighting the city's centuries-old musical traditions and its growing role in international cultural cooperation.
Bringing together representatives from approximately 30 countries across Asia, Europe, the Americas, and Africa, the international gathering provided a platform for cultural exchange, artistic collaboration, and discussions on the future of music.
Held under the theme “Tracing the Roots of Music: From the Zero Point of History to the Modern World,” the annual meeting featured a series of workshops, live performances, and concerts aimed at promoting musical diversity and strengthening connections between UNESCO Cities of Music.
One of the main venues for the day's activities was the Vali Kemalettin Gazezoğlu Cultural Center, located in the historic Reji Church, one of Şanlıurfa's distinctive cultural landmarks.
The program was attended by Mehmet Kasım Gülpınar, Mayor of Şanlıurfa Metropolitan Municipality; Jacob Wagner, Coordinator of UNESCO Cities of Music (UCOM); Mithat Can Kutluca, Secretary-General of Şanlıurfa Metropolitan Municipality; Mehmet Tahir Güllüoğlu, Rector of Harran University; Mehmet Kaya, President of the Şanlıurfa Commodity Exchange; representatives of UNESCO Cities of Music; and numerous invited guests.
MUSIC EDUCATION AND CULTURAL CONTINUITY DISCUSSED AT INTERNATIONAL WORKSHOP
As part of the annual meeting, a workshop entitled “Joint Workshop: Conservatory Education, Music Transmission, Youth, and Cultural Continuity” was held at the Vali Kemalettin Gazezoğlu Cultural Center.
The workshop focused on the importance of music education, the transmission of cultural heritage to younger generations, and the preservation of traditional musical practices in an increasingly interconnected world.
Participants explored the role of conservatories and educational institutions in supporting young musicians, encouraging artistic development, and ensuring that musical traditions remain relevant for future generations.
The discussions also highlighted the significance of international cooperation and knowledge-sharing among UNESCO Cities of Music, particularly in developing sustainable approaches to music education and cultural preservation.
MUSICAL PERFORMANCES BRING LIFE TO ŞANLIURFA'S HISTORIC VENUES
The day's musical activities extended beyond the cultural center, bringing live performances into Şanlıurfa's historic urban spaces.
At 58 Square, a trio performance offered participants an enjoyable open-air musical experience, adding a lively atmosphere to the city's historic surroundings.
The performance demonstrated how public spaces can serve as meeting points for music, culture, and community engagement, allowing visitors to experience Şanlıurfa's cultural environment in a distinctive setting.
The program later continued at the Vali Kemalettin Gazezoğlu Cultural Center with a synesthetic concert featuring Margarita Dağlar and Ahmet Dağlar.
Combining different forms of musical expression and sensory experience, the concert offered audiences an alternative approach to artistic performance and contributed to the diversity of the annual meeting's cultural program.
The event reflected the creative spirit of the UNESCO Cities of Music Network, where traditional musical heritage and contemporary artistic approaches come together to encourage innovation and intercultural dialogue.
VOX HUMANIS CHOIR DELIVERS A MEMORABLE PERFORMANCE
One of the highlights of the day was the concert performed by the Vox Humanis Choir under the direction of Fırat Altun, a faculty member and conductor.
Taking the stage at the historic cultural center, the choir captivated the audience with its musical interpretations and harmonious vocal performances.
The concert received an enthusiastic response from international delegates and invited guests, who applauded the choir's performance at length.
The Vox Humanis Choir's appearance added another memorable moment to the UNESCO Cities of Music Annual Meeting, demonstrating the richness of Şanlıurfa's artistic environment and the importance of choral music in bringing audiences together.
Through performances featuring different musical styles and artistic approaches, the annual meeting continued to celebrate music as a universal language capable of connecting people across cultures and geographical boundaries.
MAYOR GÜLPINAR INSPECTS RESTORATION WORKS AT 58 SQUARE
Alongside the cultural and musical activities, Mayor Mehmet Kasım Gülpınar visited 58 Square, where Şanlıurfa Metropolitan Municipality has carried out restoration and landscaping works aimed at preserving the area's historical character.
During the inspection, Secretary-General Mithat Can Kutluca provided information about the restoration process, environmental improvements, and arrangements completed by municipal teams.
Restored in accordance with its original architectural character, 58 Square has regained its distinctive appearance as one of the city's historic urban spaces.
Surrounded by important landmarks, including the Vali Kemalettin Gazezoğlu Cultural Center, Nimetullah Mosque, historic mansions, and traditional hotels, the square reflects the architectural and cultural identity of old Şanlıurfa.
The completed restoration and landscaping works have contributed to revitalizing the area, creating an attractive setting for cultural activities while preserving the historical atmosphere of the city.
ŞANLIURFA'S MUSICAL HERITAGE CONNECTS WITH THE WORLD
The concerts, workshops, and cultural performances organized throughout the UNESCO Cities of Music Annual Meeting provided international delegates with opportunities to experience Şanlıurfa's rich artistic traditions and historical surroundings.
By bringing together music education, contemporary performances, choral concerts, and cultural heritage preservation, the program demonstrated the city's commitment to promoting creativity and strengthening international cultural cooperation.
As a UNESCO City of Music, Şanlıurfa continues to introduce its musical identity to international audiences while creating opportunities for collaboration among artists, educators, and cultural institutions.
The day's events once again highlighted Şanlıurfa's unique position as a city where thousands of years of history meet contemporary artistic expression, reinforcing its role as an important destination for music, culture, and international exchange.
