Classical Turkish Singing

Courses /
  • Singing

Tailored Instruction for All Levels

Our Classical Turkish singing lessons are designed for both beginners and advanced students, providing a platform for adults and young people to discover and master this rich art form.

Beginners start with exercises that promote clear pronunciation and effective memorization, such as speaking text with a cork between the lips and tapping the chest with a flat hand. These exercises help internalize the text, enhance understanding of Turkish poetry, and add emotional depth to the singing. We also translate the poetry and thoroughly explain the composers and the maqam (musical mode) of each song.

Advanced students delve deeper into the maqam system of classical Turkish music, exploring its nuances and variations. Practical application is emphasized alongside theoretical knowledge to build a comprehensive understanding. Accompanied by the Tanbur, students practice and refine their ability to perceive and perform the subtleties of maqam, further enhancing their musical proficiency.

Teacher

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    Meral Cihan

    Singer and Expert in Turkish Classical Music

    Meral Cihan’s deep passion for traditional Turkish music began in Central Anatolia , where she was inspired by her grandfather’s singing.

    Musical Journey and Education

    Meral’s journey began at six with a debut performance at her village’s primary school. After moving to Berlin in the mid-1970s, her talent flourished, and she became a celebrated performer at school festivals and concerts. At 13, she studied under Osman Sıddık Doğan and learned Bağlama, a traditional Turkish lute. She also received instruction in rhythmics and Bendir from percussionist Matthias Bautz.

    In the early 2000s, Meral pursued formal education at the Conservatory for Turkish Music in Berlin, where she focused on classical singing, Tanbur, and Turkish classical music theory. Her training continued privately with N. Karademirli, culminating in a certificate after 12 years of dedicated study.

    Professional Accomplishments

    Inspired by Petra Luise Meyer, Meral trained as a singing therapist and now teaches classical singing, Tanbur, and music theory to students from around the world. In 2010, she founded the “Meral Cihan Ensemble” to celebrate Turkish classical music and later established the “Divan Ensemble” to promote cultural exchanges between East and West.

    At the Global Music School, Meral offers expert lessons in Turkish Singing and Tanbur

    Courses

    • Tanbur

    • Turkish Classical Singing

    Languages

    German, English, Turkish