Theater

The Amsterdam Turkish Classical Music Choir (Amsterdam Dostlar Klasik Türk Müziği Korosu) has been a cultural presence for many years. Since 2018, the ensemble has been under the artistic direction of Mehmet Polat, a renowned Amsterdam-based ud player, composer, and bandleader. On 8 June, they will bring their newest concert, "Yaz Faslı" (Summer Season), to Podium Mozaïek.

Melodic Richness and Cultural Depth

Turkish classical music is intellectually rich and deeply poetic, originating in the Ottoman court and embraced by elite circles of composers and musicians. Over time, it spread to live venues and became a treasured part of Turkish cultural heritage, especially from the 1960s onward through radio and TV broadcasts. With a repertoire of nearly 500 makams(melodic modes) and rhythm cycles up to 120/4, the choir’s mission is to preserve, perform, and evolve this profound tradition while making it accessible to younger and more diverse audiences in Amsterdam and beyond.

A Diverse and Inclusive Ensemble

The choir is proudly inclusive. Its 30 active members include 15 women and 15 men, hailing from a range of cultural and religious backgrounds — including Kurdish, Alevi, Christian, Sufi, atheist, and devout communities. Two Dutch singers, Barbara Wessel and Angela Attema, are also part of the group, demonstrating the universal appeal of this music. The ensemble is united by a shared passion and commitment to learning and performing together.

Beyond music, the choir also functions as a social initiative, empowering Turkish women, fostering confidence through community participation, and breaking down stereotypes.

Bridging Communities Through Music

By performing at festivals, community events, and neighborhood gatherings, the choir acts as a cultural bridge — connecting residents, passersby, and music lovers of all backgrounds. Their diverse repertoire includes pieces in makams such as Kürdilihicazkar, Karcığar, Nihavend, Hicaz, Uşşak, Rast, Saba, Hüseyni, Hüzzam, Muhayyerkürdi, and Eviç. These performances showcase a unique blend of poetic depth and melodic beauty, guided and refined by conductor Mehmet Polat, who helps the singers hone their pitch, rhythm, expression, and ensemble cohesion.

More Than a Choir

This ensemble is not only a music school but also a social platform where everyone is welcome. While the music demands a certain sensitivity and openness, its emotional richness, poetic roots, and diverse instrumentation create an experience that resonates widely. Through public concerts like Yaz Faslı, the choir aims to increase appreciation and awareness — especially among Dutch-Turkish communities.

Musicians: 

• Mehmet Polat – Ud & Conductor 

• Alper Kekeç – Percussion 

• Caner Malkoç – Clarinet 

• Ferda Kaynak – Ney & Percussion 

• Frank Leenhout – Clarinet 

• Hikmet Aydoğan – Kanun 

• İsmail Berberoğlu – Violin