Turkish pianist Nazli Hacialioglu (pictured) and Greek clarinetist Thanasis Vasilopulos perform together in Athens, Greece, May 14, 2025. (AA Photo)
May 15, 2025 09:24 AM GMT+03:00
In a striking example of cultural diplomacy, Turkish pianist Nazli Hacialioglu and renowned Greek clarinetist Thanasis Vasilopulos shared the stage for a joint concert in Athens. The performance, which captivated audiences with its blend of Turkish and Greek compositions, served not only as an artistic highlight but also as a symbolic gesture of unity between Türkiye and Greece.
The concert was held under the auspices of Türkiye’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism and the Hellenic Ministry of Culture, organized by the Turkish Embassy in Athens and supported by the Yunus Emre Institute (YEE). The event drew significant attention from both countries’ cultural and political figures, creating a festive and meaningful atmosphere.
Bridging differences through culture
Opening the evening, Türkiye’s Ambassador to Athens Cagatay Erciyes emphasized the importance of cultural collaboration amid political differences. “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,” he said.
Erciyes highlighted recent initiatives between the two countries in the field of culture and thanked both Türkiye’s Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy and Greek Culture Minister Lina Mendoni for their commitment to strengthening cultural ties.
“Let us continue to build bridges through a shared vision of cooperation and the future,” the ambassador added, underlining that art and culture can transcend political boundaries.
Turkish pianist Nazli Hacialioglu and Greek clarinetist Thanasis Vasilopulos (pictured) perform together in Athens, Greece, May 14, 2025. (AA Photo)
A powerful performance of shared heritage
The audience, which included Greek Deputy Culture Minister Yasonas Fotilas and several Greek MPs, enjoyed performances of both Turkish and Greek compositions interpreted by the two acclaimed musicians. Fotilas echoed the ambassador’s sentiment, stating, “Despite the differences between our countries, culture continues to stand strong and unwavering.”
He also noted that culture could serve as the foundation for mutual understanding, saying, “Today, we are witnessing a pure collaboration, brought to life by magnificent artists.”
Yunus Emre Institute marks a new beginning in Athens
Speaking to Anadolu Agency, Professor Abdurrahman Aliy, head of the Yunus Emre Institute, expressed optimism about the future of cultural relations between the two nations. “As YEE, we have been placing greater emphasis on art and culture in recent years because we believe that culture is the most powerful force that brings people together,” he said.
Aliy noted that this was the Institute’s first event in Greece and shared his happiness that it was a music-focused collaboration. “We know how deeply both societies are connected to music, and how melodies bring us closer. Today’s event gave me a lot of hope that the two societies will continue to grow even closer.”
He added that they aim to continue cultural activities in Greece with the strong backing of Türkiye’s Ministry of Culture and Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Artists speak of friendship, emotion and shared notes
After the performance, Hacialioglu described the evening as more than a concert. “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.”
Vasilopulos expressed similar feelings, stating how performing with his close friend Nazli Hacialioglu enhanced the emotional depth of the concert. “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.”
He also emphasized the shared cultural richness between Türkiye and Greece, saying, “What we shared tonight is just a glimpse of the beauty we have to offer. I have wonderful friends from Türkiye, and this connection fills me with joy.”
May 15, 2025 09:24 AM GMT+03:00
