NATIONALITY:

Turkish American

MEDIA APPLAUSE:

“...extra spark of spontaneity and inspiration that distinguishes an exceptionally gifted artist from a solid one.”

— South Florida Classical Review

Where do you find inspiration to create music? 

Nature! Music is everywhere in nature, think of birds chirping, the percussive whistle of a gust of wind. In one of the pieces on my program, Bartok’s Out of Doors, the “Night Music” movement demonstrates the imitation of music in nature on the piano perfectly, and it’s one of the most inspiring pieces I know. 

Which field outside of music most influences your creative process (art, design, architecture, fashion, film)?

I would have to say art! Paintings and sculptures, I love to go to museums and observe their amazing collections. My favorite artist is the Frenchman Edgar Degas. The way he captures movement in his sculptures fascinates me, how the viewer can imagine exactly where the sculpture’s hands or feet will go next. In his paintings, the faces of the characters are painted with such a deeply-felt expression, that when I look at them, I think I can feel exactly the emotions going through them. What is most amazing to me is that even in his unfinished paintings, the emotional content is still so vibrantly clear, which in a way taught me that no matter where I am in the process of learning a piece, the emotional intent should always be strong and clear. 

Describe a routine you have in place that helps you live a healthier life? 

Going outside! Every single day I go outside and walk at least for a little bit, even if the weather is horrible, even if I’m sick, even if I have the busiest day of my life. Going outside somehow can always awaken my senses. 

What energizes you in life to keep going, to keep creating?

Curiosity! I feel fortunate that I am curious about way too many things (from pieces of music, to restaurants, to people!) and so every day of my life feels like a day of learning, and to me learning is what fuels creativity! 

What is one specific product you highly recommend?

I have a small tripod that I carry in my backpack at all times. It is always coming in handy – recording myself playing, or practicing, or even speaking. It is a hugely important part of my practical and professional process!