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