The pulse of jazz music will beat in Antalya

Deniz Burak FLAG

The countdown has begun for the Antalya Akra Jazz Festival, which blends contemporary jazz, funk, rock, Latin, soul, pop and world music with the rich geography of Antalya . The festival, which will host impressive performances, jam sessions, talks and masterclasses between May 14-31, will feature musicians such as Ibrahim Maalouf, Richard Bona, Kurt Elling, Fatoumata, Melody Gardot, and Fazıl Say and Ferit Odman, who will meet with jazz lovers at the closing concert. Ferit Odman, an important name in drums, answered BirGün's questions.

While we often talk about sustainability, leaving 25 years behind in jazz music. Is this dedication?

Definitely dedication. Musicianship and jazz are such a field that you have to constantly improve yourself, be open to innovations and at the same time stay true to your roots. Being passionate about this music for 25 years means adopting not just a profession but a way of life. Sustainability in jazz is possible with internal motivation. Telling something new musically at every concert keeps this music alive.

What is the significance of this festival, which brings together leading names in jazz and world music with music lovers, celebrating its 8th anniversary?

Festivals like Akra Jazz are very valuable platforms for the survival and development of jazz in Türkiye. The fact that it has been able to continue steadily for 8 years is the result of a visionary stance. Concerts are not only held at Akra; many multi-layered effects have been created for years, such as the exchange of inspiration between musicians, direct contact with the audience, musical sharing in 'jam sessions', and even the discovery of this music by young people. Recognizing the value of such festivals and supporting them is one of the most important ways of cultural sustainability.

ON THE SAME STAGE WITH FAZIL SAY

The festival will end with two special concerts by Fazıl Say, themed '50 Years at the Piano'. You will accompany Say with your drums in jazz arrangements; what kind of an experience will this be?

It is a great excitement and responsibility for me to be on stage with a disciplined, productive and world-renowned artist like Fazıl Say. The meeting of his classical music- based perspective and my jazz approach creates a very interesting intersection. Such collaborations require pushing boundaries and stepping out of your comfort zone, which is always a nourishing process. You will witness the energy of two musicians who are very intertwined on stage.

Will the program be a synthesis of classical music and jazz?

The program will have a structure where classical pieces are reinterpreted with a jazz perspective. In this special concert where we will also include Fazıl Say's own compositions; we have created a repertoire that allows room for improvisation and reflects both his and my musical world. Music lovers will witness the rebirth of familiar melodies with different colors and rhythms.

'Akra Young Jazz' will also perform at the festival. What is the view of young people towards jazz?

The young people’s approach to jazz is now freer and more creative. In the past, there was a learning style based on a ‘master-apprentice’ relationship; now, they can access many more resources and find their own voices earlier. We get together with them from time to time. We have the opportunity to chat about both technical and non-musical topics. This kind of communication is good for me because feeling that fresh energy allows me to look at my own journey with a different perspective. By the way, on the last day of the festival, at 14:00, I will meet with those interested in a masterclass organized by the festival.

Important international names of the genre will be in Antalya for three weeks. Is there anyone among them that you would say “I love them so much, I wouldn’t miss their concert”?

This year's program is very strong again. It is always exciting for me to see Kurt Elling live. His powerful voice, stage presence and sincerity impress me a lot at every concert. Not only being on stage at such festivals, but also sharing with every musician I encounter backstage enriches me greatly. I wish I could be there for the entire festival, but I can only attend for 3 days.