From left: Turkish pianist Nazli Hacialioglu; the wife of the Turkish ambassador, Hala Erciyes; Greek Deputy Minister of Culture Iason Fotilas; Greek clarinetist Thanasis Vasilopoulos; and Ambassador Cagatay Erciyes. [Kostas Baltas]
The news coverage of Greece’s relations with Turkey is mainly of a geopolitical character, but there is a much more pleasant aspect which shows that, in addition to what divides us, there are also many things that unite us. On Wednesday, a moving musical event was organized by the Turkish Embassy at the Athens Conservatoire, under the auspices of the Ministries of Culture in Greece and Turkey. It was a wonderful recital in which Greek clarinetist Thanasis Vasilopoulos and Turkish pianist Nazli Hacialioglu shared the stage for a joint concert, interrupted by solos, in performances of both Turkish and Greek compositions interpreted by the two musicians.
It is something the two musicians have done together in the past, as part of an invitation to the ambassadorial residence last year.
The evening was hosted by Turkish Ambassador in Athens Cagatay Erciyes, who spoke to the audience about the event and its two talented protagonists, with whom he shares friendly ties. He also referred to Greek-Turkish relations, which he stressed have entered a remarkably positive phase in the last two years.
‘Despite our existing differences of opinion, our shared goal is to improve relations in every area for the benefit of both peoples. Culture is a vital part of that effort’
“The channels of communication between the two countries are both open and productive, and today the two foreign ministers met in Antalya, which reflects the current level of our bilateral relations as we prepare to host the work of the Higher Cooperation Council in Ankara,” Erciyes said. “Despite our existing differences of opinion, our shared goal is to improve relations in every area for the benefit of both peoples. Culture is a vital part of that effort.”
The ambassador noted the contribution of Culture Minister Lina Mendoni to this project, adding that significant progress has been made in cultural relations last year: First, there was a Greek-Turkish theatrical production of “Romeo and Juliet” in Ankara, Athens and Istanbul, then it was Turkey’s support for the return of the Parthenon Marbles to Greece, and finally its contribution to the identification of illegally exported Greek antiquities. He concluded by thanking the head of the Athens Conservatory, Nikos Tsouchlos, and all those who contributed to the organization of the event.
Deputy Minister of Culture Iason Fotilas delivered a welcoming speech. “Despite the differences between our countries, culture continues to stand strong and unwavering,” he said. “Today, we are witnessing a pure collaboration, brought to life by magnificent artists.”
The two soloists, who were warmly applauded, noted how the event was governed by the spirit of peace and cooperation. “It was an honor to perform here tonight. Music is a universal language that unites people, and we felt that deeply on stage. This concert was not just a performance; it was a bridge of friendship between our nations,” Hacialioglu said.
For his part, Vasilopoulos expressed similar feelings. “It was a beautiful event. Nazli and the audience made it easy for me to pour my heart out. It felt like sharing pieces of our cultures through music.
“It was a wonderful collaboration that we all enjoyed. I saw it bring sparks to the eyes of the people who watched, which for us was our greatest reward and the best thing that could have happened tonight.”
The clarinetist, who hails from the town of Agrinio, spoke with admiration and love for Hacialioglu, a distinguished musician with whom he has become good friends.
