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June 16, 2025 - GTU Office of Press and Public Relations
At the 2nd Turkish Folk Music Concert held at Gebze Technical University (GTU), a choir composed of students, academic, and administrative staff bring the rich cultural heritage of Anatolia to the stage through music and dance. The concert, which offers an unforgettable evening to the audience, attracts a large turnout.
Organized by the GTU Social Impact Coordination Office, the 2nd Turkish Folk Music Concert took place on Thursday, June 12, 2025, at the GTU Congress and Cultural Center, Hall 1. Conducted by Choir Director Ünal Dursun, the GTU Turkish Folk Music Choir presented a captivating musical performance featuring folk melodies from various regions of Anatolia.
The event began with an opening speech by GTU Vice-Rector Prof. Mahmut Durmuş, who emphasized the cultural significance of Turkish Folk Music and traditional dances. "This concert is not just an artistic event, but also a powerful step towards preserving our cultural heritage. As a university, we are committed to contributing to society not only in science but also in culture," he stated.
Prof. Meral Elçi, Social Impact Coordinator and Adviser to the Rector, also highlighted in her opening remarks that the concert served as a cultural bridge between the past and the present, and extended her gratitude to all contributors.
Before the concert, the GTU Folk Dance Team, led by Instructor Sinan Tokoğlu, performed a variety of traditional dances from different regions, receiving enthusiastic applause from the audience. Additionally, students who had gained proficiency in bağlama (a traditional string instrument) during their lessons also took the stage to perform.
The program paid tribute to the lyricists and composers of Turkish Folk Music classics. Choir members—comprising GTU students, academics, and administrative personnel—delivered emotional performances both vocally and instrumentally, deeply moving the audience. Many attendees sang along, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere.
A surprising highlight of the evening was the appearance of a robot developed by Wolf Robotics - Team10244. The robot impressed the audience with its movements synchronized to the rhythm of the music.
At the end of the event, GTU Vice-Rector Prof. Mahmut Durmuş presented plaques and flowers to Kaya Group CEO Kemal Kaya, to Fatih Destek, and to Choir Director Ünal Dursun. Prof. Meral Elçi also presented an additional plaque of appreciation to Ünal Dursun.
The concert concluded with prolonged applause, drawing great interest from students, faculty, staff, families, and music enthusiasts alike. The event once again underscored GTU’s cultural vision and its commitment to social impact. |
